Lionel Messi hit the post twice, but he ultimately found the net for Inter Miami against New York City FC in the second half on Sunday.
Shortly after the hosts put themselves in front at Yankee Stadium, the Argentine star fired home a long-range free kick, with a bit of help as the shot was deflected by an opponent.
This is Messi’s fourth goal in as many games in the 2026 MLS season, in his return to league action after missing the goalless draw against Charlotte FC on Matchday 4.
Messi extends scoring count after reaching 1,000 career goals
The free-kick goal in New York comes only a few days after Messi reached 1,000 in his career, with the former Barcelona star achieving the milestone during Inter Miami’s Concacaf Champions Cup exit.
Messi scored his 1,000th career goal early against Nashville SC, though it wasn’t enough for Inter Miami as Cristian Espinoza’s equalizer proved the difference for the visitors due to the away goals rule.
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Lionel Messi’s 900th career goal not enough for Inter Miami as Nashville advance in 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup
Messi gets closer to free-kick goals record
Still, Nashville SC head coach B.J. Callaghan labeled Messi as ‘the best’ after the game. Only a few days later, the Argentine delivered another goal to continue chasing yet another record in his illustrious career.
With his equalizer at Yankee Stadium, Messi reached 71 career free-kick goals. He’s now only seven shy of the all-time record, held by Marcelino Carioca with 78.