Messi Scores 76th Free-Kick Goal, Moves Within Two of All-Time Record

Lionel Messi scored a spectacular free-kick for Inter Miami against Columbus Crew on Sunday, taking his career tally from direct free-kicks to 76.

The 39-year-old Argentine produced the moment of brilliance in the 33rd minute of the Major League Soccer encounter after Columbus had taken an early lead through Josef Martínez from the penalty spot.

With the ball positioned near the right touchline, close to the corner of the penalty area, Messi appeared to have limited options for a direct attempt. Instead, he curled a left-footed effort over the defensive wall and into the far top corner, leaving goalkeeper Patrick Schulte unable to stop it.

The goal brought Inter Miami level at 1-1 and added another remarkable set-piece strike to Messi’s career collection.

However, Inter Miami were unable to complete the comeback, as Columbus Crew eventually secured a 2-1 victory with a late stoppage-time goal.

The strike was Messi’s 76th direct free-kick goal in official club and international matches, moving him to second on the widely reported all-time list.

Brazilian former midfielder Marcelinho Carioca is credited with 78 direct free-kick goals, leaving Messi two goals short of the reported record.

The latest goal continues an impressive run for Messi from set pieces during the 2026 season. He had scored his 75th career free-kick goal against San Diego FC earlier in September, moving ahead of Brazilian great Jair, who was credited with 74.

Messi has scored free-kicks for Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami and Argentina throughout his career.

The latest achievement further adds to the Argentine captain’s long list of individual milestones as he continues his career in Major League Soccer with Inter Miami.

Free-kick statistics can vary depending on the criteria and historical records used by different sources, but recent tallies place Marcelinho Carioca on 78 and Messi on 76.