Lionel Messi Closes In On Another Historic Record: Just Four Free-Kicks From Football History
Lionel Messi Closes In On Another Historic Record: Just Four Free-Kicks From Football History
Lionel Messi has moved to within touching distance of another extraordinary milestone in a career already defined by records, trophies and unforgettable goals.
The Argentine superstar scored his 75th career direct free-kick during Inter Miami’s 2–2 draw against San Diego FC, taking him into second place on the all-time list of players with the most direct free-kick goals.
Messi’s latest masterpiece came in the 24th minute after he was fouled just outside the penalty area. From the right side, the 39-year-old produced his trademark left-footed delivery, curling the ball towards the far corner before it struck the post and crossed the line.
The goal not only rescued Inter Miami at the time, but also added another remarkable chapter to Messi’s extraordinary set-piece record.
Four Goals From The Top
According to historical statistics cited by multiple outlets, Brazilian legend Marcelinho Carioca currently leads the list with 78 direct free-kick goals, while Messi has 75.
That means Messi needs three more goals to equal the record and four more to move outright into first place.
The current historical standings include:
| Player | Direct Free-Kick Goals |
|---|---|
| Marcelinho Carioca | 78 |
| Lionel Messi | 75 |
| Jair Rosa Pinto | 74 |
| Roberto Dinamite | 73 |
| Juninho Pernambucano | 72 |
| Siniša Mihajlović | 72 |
| Marcos Assunção | 68 |
| Jorge Aravena | 65 |
| Cristiano Ronaldo | 64 |
| Zico | 62 |
The figures refer to direct free-kick goals and can vary slightly between statistical sources depending on which competitions and matches are included.
A Skill Messi Has Turned Into An Art
Free-kicks have become one of the defining features of Messi’s goalscoring career.
While his ability to dribble past defenders, create chances and score from open play has earned worldwide recognition, his evolution as a dead-ball specialist has added another dimension to his legacy.
The latest goal against San Diego was particularly significant because it came at a stage of his career when expectations around his physical abilities are naturally different from those of his younger years.
Yet Messi continues to find ways to make the difference.
His 75 direct free-kick goals have been scored across his spells with several teams. The historical breakdown published following his latest goal credits him with 50 for Barcelona, 12 for Argentina, 11 for Inter Miami and two for Paris Saint-Germain.
Another Milestone In An Extraordinary 2026
Messi’s free-kick record is only part of an incredible run of achievements in 2026.
The San Diego match also saw him reach 930 official career goals, while his latest strike was his 101st goal for Inter Miami.
Just days earlier, Messi had scored his 100th goal for Inter Miami during the club’s 2–0 Campeones Cup victory over Cruz Azul. Reuters reported that the Argentine had reached the landmark in his 115th appearance for the club.
His continued production has therefore added even more significance to what is already a remarkable stage of his career.
The Race To 79
The numbers make the challenge straightforward.
Three more direct free-kick goals: Messi equals Marcelinho Carioca’s reported record of 78.
Four more: Messi reaches 79 and becomes the outright leader on the historical list.
That pursuit could become one of the most fascinating statistical storylines surrounding the remainder of Messi’s career.
Every time Inter Miami win a free-kick within shooting range, another opportunity presents itself for the Argentine to move closer to the summit.
And given his extraordinary history from dead-ball situations, the possibility of seeing Messi take sole possession of the record adds another layer of anticipation to his remaining matches.
A Legacy That Continues To Grow
Messi has already established himself among football’s most prolific goalscorers, but his free-kick numbers demonstrate another aspect of his longevity.
At 75 direct free-kick goals, he has moved beyond several legendary specialists and is now separated from the all-time mark by only four goals.
Whether he reaches 79 or goes even further will depend on the opportunities that come his way, but the significance of the chase is already clear.
Lionel Messi is now just four direct free-kick goals away from potentially becoming the player with the most free-kick goals in recorded football history.
At this stage of his career, another historic record is once again within his reach.
