Messi overtakes Pelé! Lionel Messi scores another free-kick goal in MLS

Inter Miami clinched a thrilling 3-2 away victory over New York City FC in the MLS regular season. Among the scorers was Lionel Messi, who found the net with a sensational direct free-kick.

The Argentine maestro scored with the help of a slight deflection, marking his fourth goal in this MLS campaign and his fifth overall this season. Throughout his storied career, Messi has now tallied 901 goals and has set his sights on the 1,000-goal milestone.

• Read also: Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid: prediction, head-to-head, and probable line-ups – 22 March 2026

It’s also worth noting that this strike against New York City FC was the 71st direct free-kick goal of Messi’s illustrious career. With this achievement, he surpasses Pelé to claim sole possession of second place in all-time free-kick goals. Only Juninho Pernambucano has scored more, with 77 to his name.