Messi closes in on all-time free-kick record with 76th goal

Lionel Messi has moved to within two goals of the all-time record for direct free-kick goals after scoring a spectacular set-piece for Inter Miami.

The Argentine curled a free-kick into the far top corner against Columbus Crew on Sunday, taking his career tally from direct free-kicks to 76.

Messi’s effort came in the 33rd minute after Columbus had taken an early lead through Josef Martinez. Rather than cross the ball into the box, the Inter Miami captain went directly for goal from a difficult angle, beating goalkeeper Patrick Schulte.

Although Messi’s strike brought Inter Miami level, Columbus eventually secured a 2-1 victory with a late stoppage-time goal.

The 76th free-kick goal leaves Messi two behind the 78 credited to Brazilian legend Marcelinho Carioca, according to widely cited historical tallies.

Messi has enjoyed a prolific run from set pieces in 2026, with his latest goal coming after he reached 75 against San Diego FC. His career free-kick tally includes goals scored for Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami and Argentina.

With two more direct free-kick goals, Messi would draw level with Marcelinho, while another would put him at the top of the widely cited list.

Historical free-kick statistics can vary depending on how different databases classify goals, but recent tallies place Marcelinho first with 78 and Messi second with 76.