Lionel Messi has solidified his position in football history, overtaking Pelé with 71 career free-kick goals and moving closer to Brazilian Juninho Pernambucano's record of 77.
Inter Miami and Argentina's superstar has transformed his free-kick skills from an occasional weapon to one of the deadliest parts of his game, leaving him six short of Juninho's highest figure.
With this latest achievement, Messi continues to add fresh milestones deep into his 30s, showcasing his longevity and reinvention.
Juninho remains at the top with 77, followed by Messi on 71, Pelé on 70, Ronaldinho and Víctor Legrotaglie tied on 66 each.
Messi's free-kick goals carry an aura of their own, making him one of the few in the sport's history to master the theatre of taking direct free-kicks.
As he chases Juninho's record, Messi's evolution has been complete, refining his craft to make every free-kick in shooting range a genuine scoring chance.
