Lionel Messi scores a free-kick from an almost impossible angle, bringing an amazing record within reach.
Lionel Messi is just two goals away from matching the all-time record for free-kick goals after scoring from a nearly impossible angle against Columbus Crew.
Messi scored his 76th free-kick goal during Inter Miami’s 2-1 loss on Sunday night, putting him very close to breaking the long-standing record held by Brazilian legend Marcelinho Carioca.
Carioca, known for playing with Flamengo and Corinthians, scored his last free-kick for Santo Andre in 2009 and was nicknamed “Angel’s Foot” because of his amazing skill on set-pieces.
Before leaving for international duty, Messi gave fans at the Hard Rock Stadium a special moment by scoring from a difficult angle to level the game at 1-1.
The 39-year-old forward showed his brilliance once again, extending his lead in the Golden Boot race to three goals with his 21st MLS goal this season.
As you can see in the video below, Messi was wide on the right side before curling a beautiful left-footed shot straight towards the goal.
His ball went over Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte and into the top far corner, making the crowd of 65,000 in the stadium gasp in amazement.
Messi nearly gave Miami the lead around the 60-minute mark, but Schulte made a great save to tip his shot over the bar. That save was key since Columbus scored a surprise winner in the 99th minute.
Jamal Thiare took advantage of a loose ball after Miami’s goalie Rocco Rios Novo couldn’t hold Brais Mendez’s shot, giving Columbus all three points.
Last month, Messi announced he would retire from international football after 20 unforgettable years with Argentina.
In a heartfelt message on social media, he said the decision was painful but felt it was time to step away.
He wrote, “It was a decision that hurt – and still hurts deep down – but I understand that the time has come.
I promise I always gave my all – not only in recent years when we won so much but even before that; I always fought and gave everything for this jersey, to bring joy and make you proud to be Argentine through football.
Time moves on, some chapters close, and this one hurts me deeply. I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team.”
Messi added, “I’ve given everything I had; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up who deserve to be here.”
The friendly match between Argentina and Benin on October 6 at Buenos Aires’ Estadio Monumental will be Messi’s last game for his country.