Lionel Messi Nears Free-Kick Goal Record
Lionel Messi scored his 76th career direct free-kick goal during a recent match for Inter Miami.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Soccer
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Lionel Messi secured his 76th career direct free-kick goal, finding the net during a match against Columbus Crew. This latest achievement brings the Inter Miami star within two goals of the all-time record.
Why it matters
The goal underscores Messi's enduring precision from dead-ball situations as he chases the sport's historical benchmark. His performance continues to influence match results for Inter Miami as the team pushes through the late-season schedule.
Messi has now recorded 76 direct free-kick goals in his career, leaving him just two shy of the 78-goal record held by Marcelinho Carioca. The successful strike against Columbus Crew follows another free-kick goal he scored earlier this month against San Diego FC.
The players
Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi is a globally recognized professional footballer who plays for Inter Miami.
Marcelinho Carioca
Marcelinho Carioca is a legendary former professional footballer who currently holds the all-time record for direct free-kick goals.
Josef Martinez
Josef Martinez is a professional soccer player who scored a penalty goal for Columbus Crew.
The details
Messi successfully curled the ball into the net from a tight angle near the corner area to beat the opposing goalkeeper. The effort was crucial in tying the match against Columbus Crew, which also saw Josef Martinez convert a penalty goal.
Timeline
September 2026: Messi scored a free-kick against San Diego FC.
September 28, 2026: Messi scored a free-kick against Columbus Crew.
Season Trajectory
This goal serves as a pivotal moment in the season, keeping Inter Miami competitive in tight contests as the team relies on Messi's specialized set-piece abilities. Challenging the historical record held by Marcelinho Carioca adds significant stakes to every remaining free-kick opportunity this year.
Messi's continued success from set pieces provides a reliable tactical advantage for Inter Miami, impacting the team's ability to salvage points in close matches. His proximity to the record ensures increased focus on every dead-ball opportunity for fans tracking league statistics.
The takeaway
Messi's ability to convert from difficult angles remains one of the most effective tools in his tactical arsenal. Fans should monitor his set-piece opportunities in upcoming matches as he approaches the historic 78-goal threshold.
Further reading
For more on local matches and player achievements, visit the Soccer section.
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