Lionel Messi scores stunning free-kick but Inter Miami suffer late defeat

Lionel Messi scored one of the most unusual free-kicks of his career, but Inter Miami were beaten 2-1 by Columbus Crew at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field on Sunday.

The Argentina captain found the far top corner from an almost impossible position, striking from wide on the right close to the edge of the penalty area and the corner flag.

Inter Miami had fallen behind in the 28th minute after former Herons striker Josef Martinez was brought down inside the box. Martinez took responsibility from the penalty spot and converted to put Columbus in front.

Messi responded five minutes later with a remarkable piece of individual skill. His left-footed delivery was sent directly towards goal, curling over goalkeeper Patrick Schulte before dipping into the far top corner to make it 1-1 in the 33rd minute.

The goal was Messi’s 21st in the MLS regular season. It was also the 76th direct free-kick goal of his career for club and country, leaving him two short of matching Marcelinho Carioca’s reported record of 78.

Inter Miami had opportunities to complete the comeback after the break. Schulte denied Messi in the 62nd minute, tipping his attempt over the crossbar, while David Ayala also appeared to have put Miami ahead before his effort was ruled out for offside.

Columbus ultimately claimed victory with the final significant attack of the match.

In the 99th minute, goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo was unable to hold Brais Mendez’s shot, allowing Jamal Thiare to react first to the loose rebound. Thiare fired into the net to secure a dramatic late win and leave Inter Miami defeated despite Messi’s outstanding free-kick.