Lionel Messi scores 104th International goal with stunning Free kick

Lionel Messi steered Argentina to a narrow 1-0 triumph against South American rivals Ecuador through a magnificent free-kick in the 78th minute. In accordance with tradition whenever the World Cup winner stands over a set-piece opportunity, the crowd in Buenos Aires held its collective breath.

His free-kick prowess is unparalleled in the football world. His precise technique, incredible ball control, and ability to generate swerving and dipping strikes make him a maestro from dead-ball situations. Messi’s free kicks consistently find the target, leaving both fans and opponents in awe of his extraordinary set-piece skills.

LIONEL MESSI FREE KICK GOAL! 🇦🇷https://t.co/yAsas0pRTQ

— Roy Nemer (@RoyNemer) September 8, 2023

Messi, now playing for Inter Miami, elegantly curved the ball over the defensive wall and into the near corner of the net, leaving Ecuador’s goalkeeper Hernan Galindez with little recourse but to stand still and watch as Ecuador’s hopes of securing a point in the CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifier opener faded away.

The diminutive No. 10 received a standing ovation and a salute from the Argentine crowd as he was substituted in the 89th minute, acknowledging their favorite son.

Meanwhile, in other qualifier matches, Paraguay played to a goalless draw against Peru, while Colombia secured a 1-0 home victory over Venezuela. Despite dominating possession, the reigning world champions, Argentina, encountered frustration in their offensive efforts as they struggled to break through.

Messi penalty Goals since 2018 :
26 Goals 🤯

Messi Free-kick goals since 2018 :
31 Goals 💀💀💀 pic.twitter.com/Ks9WEuq3EO

— 𝐓𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐲 🎩 (@Shelby_Messi) September 8, 2023

The stunning free kick goal by Lionel Messi was his 104th International Goal in what was his 175th senior appearance for Argentina since making his debut in 17th August 2005. He has a goal ratio of 0.59, slightly less than Cristiano Ronaldo’s.

Messi is now just 5 goals away from becoming the joint 2nd highest International goal scorer and needs 6 more to become officially the 2nd by replacing Ali Daei.

The first round of CONMEBOL qualifiers continues on Friday with Uruguay hosting Chile, followed by Brazil taking on Bolivia. Messi’s goal in this match also meant that he equaled his close friend and former Barcelona teammate, Luis Suarez, as the joint leader in the all-time CONMEBOL World Cup qualification goal-scoring charts, with 29 goals.

Argentina’s next World Cup qualifier is scheduled for September 12 against Bolivia in La Paz. During Messi’s absence, Inter Miami will play a home match against Sporting Kansas City on September 9.