© EuroFootball.com
Due to the "Golden Ball" ceremony Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who are vying for the award, tested their "strengths" in the best player prizes of the Spanish national championship.
Once again, the leader of "Barcelona" triumphed, being recognized not only as the best forward, but also as the best player of the tournament overall. The "Real" star received a more modest award - the most valuable player prize.
By the way, the traditional elections were organized by the Madrid-favoring Spanish capital newspaper "Marca".
L. Messi, who is recovering from an injury, did not participate in the ceremony, so the prizes were collected on his behalf by the press representative of the "Barcelona" club's Board of Directors, Toxi Freixa. The Argentine was also awarded the "Pichichi" award for the most goals scored in the national championship last season. He received the award for scoring 45 goals in national competitions.
The best coach of last season was recognized as Diego Simeone, the coach of "Atletico" Madrid.
Sergio Ramos from "Real" Madrid received the prize for the best defender, while his teammate Asier Illarramendi won two awards - for the best newcomer and best midfielder.
Andres Iniesta of "Barcelona", who defends the team's honor, was recognized as the best attacking midfielder.
C. Ronaldo was named the most valuable player, while the best forward and best player in the championship, as mentioned, was L. Messi.
Thibaut Courtois from "Atletico" Madrid was recognized as the best goalkeeper of the championship. Another goalkeeper, Iker Casillas from "Real" Madrid, received an award for fair play. The same award in team voting went to the "Atletico" Madrid team.
