Messi joins exclusive list with CR7 and Ronaldinho | OneFootball

How many times have we seen Lionel Messi score from a free-kick?

Last night, the eight-time Ballon D'Or winner did it again - securing a famous win for Inter Miami against FC Porto at the Club World Cup, while also reaching a few notable milestones in the process.

A Historic Team Achievement

First, the major headline: Inter Miami ended a 12-year unbeaten run for European clubs in the Club World Club. The last team to manage such a feat was Corinthians, who famously beat Chelsea in the 2012 Club World Cup final.

Since then, European sides had remained unbeaten in 31 consecutive matches - until now. Inter Miami’s victory is also the first-ever official win by a North American club over European opposition in a competitive FIFA tournament.

Messi’s Free-Kick and a Select Club

The winning goal - inevitably - came from Lionel Messi, with yet another trademark free-kick. It was the 68th free-kick goal of his career and his fifth for Inter Miami.

Having already scored a free-kick in the 2014 World Cup against Nigeria, Messi now joins a rare group of players who have scored from free-kicks in both the FIFA World Cup and the Club World Cup.

That elite list also includes Fernando Hierro (who did it with Real Madrid and Spain), Ronaldinho Gaúcho (Atlético Mineiro and Brazil), Ronald Gómez (Saprissa and Costa Rica), and Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid and Portugal).

What’s Next for Inter Miami?

Inter Miami now share top spot in Group A with Brazilian side Palmeiras. A draw in their final group game will be enough to take them through to the knockout stages.