Age is truly just a number for Lionel Messi. The 39-year-old maestro has inched even closer to football history, scoring his 76th direct career free-kick during Inter Miami’s 2–1 loss to Columbus Crew.

Trailing early after an opener from Josef Martínez, Inter Miami won a free-kick near the right touchline in the 33rd minute. Instead of floating a traditional cross into a packed penalty box, Messi chose to shock everyone. He unleashed a trademark, sublime left-footed curler that sailed over the defensive wall and dipped perfectly into the far top corner, leaving goalkeeper Patrick Schulte completely helpless.

Although Columbus ultimately snatched the victory with a late stoppage-time goal, Messi's stunning strike once again captured the football world's attention.

The Race for the Free-Kick Crown

With this latest set-piece masterclass, Messi's career milestones look staggering:

  • Current Free-Kick Tally: 76 official direct free-kick goals scored across his illustrious career for Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami, and the Argentina national team.

  • The All-Time Record: Brazilian legend Marcelinho Carioca holds the widely credited benchmark with 78 direct free-kick goals. (Note: Statistical records vary, with some lists also crediting Juninho Pernambucano with 77).

  • The Distance: Messi now sits just two goals away from equaling the all-time record.

A Prolific 2026 Set-Piece Run

Messi has been on an absolute tear from dead-ball situations this year. His recent scoring spree includes memorable free-kicks against San Diego FC, Orlando City, New York City FC, a double against CF Montréal, and even on the international stage for Argentina.

This latest strike also pushes his overall professional career goal tally past 931, bringing him ever closer to the unimaginable 1,000-goal milestone. With how lethal he remains from open play and set-pieces, breaking the all-time free-kick record seems like an absolute inevitability rather than a possibility.

Do you think Messi will surpass Marcelinho Carioca’s record before the end of the season? Drop your predictions in the comments below!