A moment of pure magic reminded the world that Lionel Messi’s brilliance is truly timeless. During Inter Miami’s dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over FC Porto at the FIFA Club World Cup, the 37-year-old maestro once again proved why he is considered one of football’s greatest.
With the score level and the pressure mounting, Messi stepped up to take a free-kick from just outside the penalty area. The stadium held its breath. Rather than curling it around the wall, he chose the audacious option sending the ball over the top, dipping it perfectly into the goalkeeper’s corner. It was a goal of rare quality, the kind only Messi seems able to produce with such consistency.
The goal marked his 68th direct free-kick strike, a tally surpassed only by Juninho Pernambucano and Pele. For spectators around the world, the moment felt inevitable a piece of art rather than mere sport. In one flawless movement, Messi reminded everyone that class, true class, never fades.
That strike wasn’t just a spectacular highlight. It turned the game on its head, following an earlier equalizer from Telasco Segovia. The comeback now places Inter Miami on the brink of reaching the knockout stage, with only a draw needed against Palmeiras to secure progression. For a club that had never won at the Club World Cup before, Messi’s influence is as transformative as it is inspirational.
Even at 37, the Argentine superstar shows no signs of slowing down. Since joining Inter Miami nearly two years ago, he has scored 50 goals in 61 games, becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer. His career tally across all clubs now stands at a breathtaking 754 goals. Each performance seems to reaffirm his place in football’s pantheon.
Beyond the goals, Messi continues to dominate every facet of the game. Against Porto, he led in dribbles, had the third-most touches, and ranked among the top five for passes attempted. His impact is not limited to moments of magic he orchestrates the rhythm, flow, and tempo of the match with effortless mastery.
At the Club World Cup, Messi now boasts six goals in seven appearances, equaling legends like Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema. Only one more goal would match Cristiano Ronaldo’s tournament record a feat that feels within reach given his current form.
In an era filled with rising stars and constant change, Lionel Messi remains the unwavering standard. His touch, vision, and timing continue to redefine what’s possible on a football pitch. Once again, he has shown that greatness isn’t just built on talent, but on the rare ability to rise when it matters most.
