Messi scores 71 free kick goals, surpasses legend Pele.

Superstar Lionel Messi once again displayed his magic through a set-piece. This time, the Inter Miami captain made history by surpassing Brazilian legend Pelé's free-kick Goal Record.

The moment occurred when Inter Miami secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over New York City FC in a Major League Soccer match on Monday, March 23, 2026.

Messi found the net in the 61st minute with a deceptive low free-kick that outwitted Goalkeeper Matt Freese. This goal marked the turning point in Inter Miami's comeback during the match.

Surpassing Pelé: Messi Sets New Record

That additional goal brings Messi's career tally to 71 direct free-kick goals. This achievement surpasses Pelé's previous record of 70 goals.

With this milestone, Messi officially becomes the second-highest free-kick scorer in World Football history.

The top position remains held by Olympique Lyonnais legend Juninho Pernambucano, who scored 77 goals from similar situations.

All-Time Top Free-Kick Scorers

Here are the players with the most free-kick goals:

1. Juninho Pernambucano: 77 goals
2. Lionel Messi: 71 goals
3. Pelé: 70 goals
4. Ronaldinho: 68 goals
5. Victor Legrotaglie: 66 goals
6. David Beckham: 65 goals
7. Cristiano Ronaldo: 64 goals
8. Diego Maradona: 62 goals
9. Zico: 62 goals
10. Rogerio Ceni: 61 goals

(still active)

Messi's Consistency at Age 38

At 38 years old, Messi continues to demonstrate world-class quality, particularly in set-piece execution. His accuracy, technique, and composure remain key to scoring crucial goals for Inter Miami.

This record further solidifies Messi's status as one of the greatest free-kick specialists in football history.