Few sights in football are as familiar as Lionel Messi standing over a free-kick just outside the penalty area. And once again, the 37-year-old reminded the world of his brilliance, curling in a sensational strike to help Inter Miami secure a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Porto at the FIFA Club World Cup. The goal, which came from 20 yards out and left Porto goalkeeper Claudio Ramos with no chance, had all the hallmarks of classic Messi: precision, power, and an uncanny ability to make the extraordinary look effortless.

How did the goal happen?

Positioned centrally at the edge of the ‘D’, Messi had the entire goal to aim at. Yet, rather than taking the simpler route to the far post, he opted for the more audacious choice, which is up and over the wall, into the top corner on the goalkeeper’s side. It was a risk, but one that only a player of his caliber could consistently turn into reward. With that strike, Messi took his tally of direct free-kick goals to 68, moving ever closer to the all-time leaders in that category: Juninho Pernambucano (77) and Pele (70).

Segovia and Messi combine to make history

The win wasn’t just about Messi. Midfielder Telasco Segovia had earlier produced a brilliant finish of his own to level the score after Porto had taken the lead. Messi’s free-kick completed the comeback and ensured Inter Miami’s first-ever win at a Club World Cup, a landmark moment for the young MLS franchise. The result puts Inter Miami in strong contention to progress to the knockout stage. With one Group A match remaining, a draw against Brazilian giants Palmeiras, who currently top the group, would be enough for both teams to advance to the last 16.

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“GOAT for a reason”

The Internet quickly reacted to the goal. A user said, ” Messi is the best.” Another claimed, “Messi always wants to play. He’s a competitor but I think he cares way more for this team than i initially believed. Lots of passion out there, especially when things don’t go right. But he needs to rest.” “No mls team had ever beaten an European team but miami did it, all bcoz of messi and his freekick. Goat,” noted another. “free kick merchant,” called a fan. “What a Magnificent Free Kick from Lionel Andres Messi Greatest Footballer of all Time,” said a user.