Lionel Messi's Free-Kick Magic Overshadowed by Miami's Late

Lionel Messi delivered another moment of genius with a spectacular free-kick goal, but Inter Miami suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to the Columbus Crew on Sunday after conceding in the ninth minute of stoppage time. The 39 year old Argentine's 33rd minute set piece equalizer was his 12th direct free-kick for Miami and his 21st MLS goal this season, but it was ultimately rendered meaningless by Jamal Thiaré's last gasp winner.

Messi's Free-Kick Mastery Nears Historic Peak

From a seemingly impossible angle wide on the right wing, Messi curled a left footed shot over the wall and into the far top corner of Patrick Schulte's net. It was a goal that defied geometry and expectation, with most anticipating a cross into the box. This strike was his 76th career free-kick goal across all clubs and the Argentina national team. Recent tallies place him just two goals behind the record widely attributed to Brazilian Marcelinho Carioca, who has 78. Messi's prolific 2026 includes multiple free-kick goals for both Inter Miami and Argentina. His overall career goal tally now stands above 931.

Miami's Form Slumps as Playoff Pressure Builds

The late collapse in Ohio extended a worrying run for the MLS Cup holders. Inter Miami has managed just one win in its last ten matches, though it has only lost twice in that span. The team currently sits with a record of 12 wins, 5 losses, and 10 draws. The loss was compounded by a late red card shown to substitute Santiago Morales in stoppage time, just moments before Thiaré's decisive rebound goal. Miami goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo made five saves but could not hold onto Brais Méndez's late shot, presenting the chance for the Columbus winner. The result leaves Miami needing to find consistency ahead of their next match against D.C. United on October 10.

Messi's Dual Focus: Miami's Push and an International Farewell

Even as he leads Miami's attack, Messi is preparing for a significant personal milestone. He will play his final match for Argentina in a friendly against Benin on October 6 at Buenos Aires' Monumental Stadium, following his announcement in late August that he was ending his international career. His performance in MLS this season proves he remains a formidable force, leading the league in both goals (21) and assists (13, tied with four others). He now holds a three goal lead over FC Dallas's Petar Musa in the Golden Boot race. Messi had chances to add to his tally against Columbus, denied by Schulte from distance and putting another effort into the side netting.

• KEY TAKEAWAYS: Messi's 76th career free-kick goal puts him two shy of the all-time record. Inter Miami has only one win in its last ten games after a last minute loss. Messi will play his final match for Argentina on October 6 against Benin.

His immediate future involves a quick trip to honor his national team before returning to help steady a Miami side that has seen its form dip at a critical stage of the season. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page.