Messi moves within two free-kick goals of historic record after Inter Miami strike

Lionel Messi is now two goals away from matching Marcelino Carioca’s record for the most free-kick goals in football history after scoring another outstanding set piece for Inter Miami.

Inter Miami, the MLS Cup holders, were beaten 2-1 by Columbus Crew, who secured victory with a late goal from Jamal Thiare in the eighth minute of second-half stoppage time.

Despite the defeat, Messi delivered another moment of individual brilliance. He scored Inter Miami’s only goal in the 33rd minute with a left-footed direct free-kick from a difficult angle.

The Argentina forward’s effort flew into the far top corner after deceiving the Columbus defence, who appeared to expect him to send the ball across the area rather than shoot.

The goal was Messi’s fourth from a free-kick in his past seven matches for Inter Miami, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

“Lionel Messi has scored four free-kick goals in the last seven games with Inter Miami,” Romano wrote on X.

He added: “Messi (76 goals) is now only two goals away from matching Brazilian Marcelino Carioca’s record of 78 free-kick goals in his career.”

Romano’s post was published on 28 September 2026.