Lionel Messi reaches 75 career free-kick goals and 930 total goals

On September 20, 2026, 39-year-old Lionel Messi achieved another milestone in his career during Inter Miami's 2-2 draw against San Diego. Messi scored a precise free-kick in the 24th minute, which marked his 75th career goal from a direct free-kick. With this performance, the Argentine forward reached 930 total professional goals and 101 goals in an Inter Miami shirt. San Diego had initially taken the lead in the 12th minute through Anders Dreyer before Messi's equalizer.

This goal brings Messi to the second spot on the all-time list for direct free-kick goals, trailing only Marcelinho Carioca, who recorded 78 goals between 1988 and 2009. The achievement further extends his legacy, as he currently leads the MLS scoring charts for the 2026 season with 20 goals and has contributed 11 assists in 22 appearances. His recent form follows his success in the Campeones Cup, where he secured his 49th career title after defeating Cruz Azul.