“Ankara Messi” is a misheard phrase that has become iconic among Lionel Messi fans.
What was actually shouted by the commentator was “Encara Messi!,” a phrase in Catalan meaning “Still Messi!” The phrase captures the moment when Messi, then 19, glided past defenders for a solo dribble-and-goal against Getafe in the 2007 Copa del Rey semi-final. It wasn’t about Turkey’s capital at all, though “Ankara” is how many non-Catalan speakers heard “Encara.”
The moment itself is now legendary. Messi picked up the ball near his own half, ran at pace, weaving through multiple defenders, and eventually scored past Getafe’s goalkeeper.
Who Was The Commentator?
The phrase comes from Joaquim Maria Puyal, a Catalan commentator known for covering FC Barcelona matches. He shouted “Encara Messi!” in awe of Messi’s performance in that match.
The commentator Joaquim Maria Puyal kept repeating “Encara Messi!” in awe as the run unfolded. It was a defining moment, showing Messi’s dribbling, composure, and fearlessness.
Due to accents, pronunciation, and how sound carries over broadcasts, many people misheard “Encara” as “Ankara.”
That mishearing stuck, especially as the moment was replayed, shared, and memed across social media platforms.
What Exactly Does “Encara Messi” Mean?
In Catalan, “Encara” means “still” or “yet.” So “Encara Messi!” translates roughly to “Still Messi!” — implying Messi is still in control, still doing what makes him special.
Over time, “Ankara Messi” became shorthand among fans for a piece of brilliance from Messi—when he dribbles past someone, when he’s “still Messi,” still gliding, still doing what few can do.
Part of what makes “Ankara Messi” more than just a funny mispronunciation is how it captures the essence of Messi’s playing style: relentless, skillful, confident.
Fans will shout “Ankara Messi!” when he is in full flow, especially during a solo run or when he faces many defenders and still comes through. It’s become a meme, a chant, a celebration of what Messi can do against the odds.
The phrase’s widespread adoption was helped by social media: clips, memes, TikToks, etc., spreading the audio “Ankara Messi” and pairing it with some form of dramatic or impressive moment (not always football-related). That viral spread cemented it in football folklore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Do People Say “Ankara Messi” Instead?
Because of mishearing, the Catalan pronunciation of Encara sounded like Ankara to many listeners. When the goal run was replayed and memes went up, that mishearing got heavier circulation.
When/Where Did This Happen?
The moment was during a Copa del Rey semi-final first leg between Barcelona and Getafe, on April 18, 2007. Messi was 19 years old, making a solo run starting from near the halfway line, dribbling past several defenders, and ending in a goal.
How Is “Ankara Messi” Used Today?
Fans, commentators, meme creators, and social media posts use “Ankara Messi!” whenever Messi does something magical.
It’s become shorthand for moments of skill, dribbling savagery, solo goals, etc. Also used nostalgically to refer back to “that goal,” which helped build Messi’s legend.
What Does “Ankara Messi” Mean?
“Ankara Messi” is a phrase shouted by a Spanish commentator during one of Lionel Messi’s incredible solo goals.
The word “Ankara” doesn’t have a literal meaning in this context—it was just an emotional outburst that stuck with fans.
Where Did The “Ankara Messi” Chant Originate From?
It originated in Spain during Messi’s famous 2015 Copa del Rey goal against Athletic Bilbao, when a commentator repeatedly exclaimed “¡Ankara Messi!” as he dribbled past multiple defenders.
Who First Popularized The “Ankara Messi” Commentary?
The phrase became iconic thanks to Spanish football commentator Joaquim Maria Puyal, who called the goal live on radio and repeated “Ankara Messi” with passion.
Why Do, Fans Keep Repeating “Ankara Messi”?
Fans repeat it because it captures the magic of Messi’s dribbling runs. The chant has since been turned into memes, compilations, and social media trends, making it part of football internet culture.
Is “Ankara Messi” About Lionel Messi Himself?
Yes, it refers directly to Lionel Messi, specifically his breathtaking dribble and solo goal against Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey final.
Which Match Is Associated With The “Ankara Messi” Chant?
It is tied to the Copa del Rey final in May 2015, where Barcelona defeated Athletic Bilbao 3–1, and Messi scored what many consider one of the greatest goals of his career.
Why Did The Phrase Become A Meme Online?
Its catchy, repetitive delivery made it perfect for memes, edits, and TikToks. Football fans loved how the words matched Messi’s unstoppable dribble, giving it comedic and viral potential.
How Do Fans Use “Ankara Messi” Today—On Social Media Or In Stadiums?
Today, fans use it in highlight reels, memes, and even chants at football games whenever a player makes a Messi-like dribble. It has become a symbol of football magic and internet humor.
Is “Ankara Messi” Still Trending In 2025?
Yes, it remains popular. With Messi’s legendary career and the internet keeping the meme alive, “Ankara Messi” continues to resurface in new viral clips, especially among younger football fans.