#1 Lionel Messi - 36
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With names like Ronaldinho, Samuel Eto'o, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Raul taking the field, the El Clasico, dated 10th March 2007, was bound to be a scintillating contest. It wa,s indeed, but the game belonged to a youngster who had outshone every other heavyweight present around him.
Lionel Messi, still 19, became the first person in 12 years to score an El Clasico hattrick.
It was the first time Real Madrid had to bow down before the little magician, the first of many more to come. Messi has been part of 36 El Clasico matches, with the first one dating back to 2005. With 24 goals, he is the all-time top scorer in El Clasico history ahead of Real legend, Alfredo di Stefano.
Lionel Messi also happens to be the only player in the last 50 years to score an El Clasico hattrick twice. Stats like these explain the daunting impact he has on the minds of the Real Madrid defenders. On December 23rd, the Argentine is once again expected to come out all guns blazing and seal the title race once and for all.
Which of these names do you think will decide the El Clasico? Have your say in the comments section below.
Sources: Transfermarkt and RSSSF