Lionel Messi has moved closer to the all-time free-kick record after scoring a stunning set-piece goal for Inter Miami against Columbus Crew on September 28, 2026. The 39-year-old Argentine curled home from a near-impossible angle in the 33rd minute to level the scores after Columbus had taken an early lead through Josef Martínez. This impressive goal showcased Messi's skill and technique.
The goal took Messi's career tally from direct free-kicks to 76 in official matches for Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami, and Argentina. According to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, this achievement further solidifies Messi's reputation as one of football's most skilled free-kick takers. His impressive run from set pieces this year has included goals against San Diego FC, CF Montréal, Orlando City, and New York City FC.
Inter Miami, however, could not complete the comeback, as Columbus secured a 2-1 victory with a stoppage-time winner. Despite the loss, Messi's latest strike has garnered significant attention, with many praising his technique and skill. The goal has also sparked discussions about Messi's overall career goal tally, which has now risen above 931.
Messi's latest goal leaves him two goals behind Brazilian Marcelinho Carioca, who is widely credited with 78 direct free-kick goals. Historical free-kick records vary depending on the criteria used by different statistical compilers, with some lists placing Brazilian Juninho Pernambucano near the top with 77. Recent tallies, however, put Marcelinho Carioca first and Messi second following his latest goal.
Messi has enjoyed an impressive run from set pieces this year, scoring against San Diego FC to reach 75 before netting twice in Inter Miami's 7-1 victory over CF Montréal. He has also scored free-kicks against Orlando City and New York City FC for Inter Miami, as well as against Jordan with Argentina at the 2026 World Cup.
The latest goal further underlined Messi's reputation as one of football's most skilled free-kick takers in the latter stage of his career. He scored 50 direct free-kicks for Barcelona, more than a dozen for Argentina, and has added several more since joining Inter Miami in 2023. This achievement is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
As Messi continues to play, his chances of breaking the all-time free-kick record remain high. With his impressive skill and technique, fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on his progress. For now, Messi's 76th free-kick goal serves as a reminder of his exceptional talent and his enduring impact on the world of football.
Key points
- Messi now has 76 free-kick goals, two behind Marcelinho Carioca's record of 78.
- Messi has scored free-kicks for Inter Miami, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Argentina.
- Messi's overall career goal tally has now risen above 931.
