Lionel Messi has once again etched his name in football history, becoming the youngest player ever to score 875 career goals during Inter Miami’s thrilling 3-1 victory over LA Galaxy. Returning from a short injury layoff, Messi played 45 impactful minutes and sealed the win with a stunning goal—a moment that reminded fans of his peak Barcelona days.
Messi’s Record-Breaking Achievement
- Fastest to 875 goals: Reached the milestone in just 1,116 matches—fewer than any player in history.
- Match-winning strike: A dazzling solo run and clinical finish left the goalkeeper helpless, securing Inter Miami’s victory over the defending MLS champions.
- Closing in on Ronaldo: Messi is now just 63 goals behind Cristiano Ronaldo (938), the all-time leading scorer in football history.
A Legendary Career: From First Goal to GOAT Status
Messi’s journey to greatness began on May 1, 2005, when a 17-year-old Lionel Messi scored his first career goal for Barcelona against Albacete. Coming on as an 87th-minute substitute, he latched onto a Ronaldinho assist and chipped the goalkeeper with a delicate lob. Though initially disputed for offside, the goal stood, making Messi La Liga’s youngest scorer at the time.
Since then, Messi has:
- Won a record 8 Ballon d’Or awards
- Led Argentina to World Cup glory (2022)
- Become Barcelona’s all-time top scorer (672 goals)
- Dominating MLS with Inter Miami (since 2023)
Messi vs. Ronaldo: The Eternal Rivalry
While Cristiano Ronaldo (938 goals) still leads the all-time scoring charts, Messi’s playmaking brilliance sets him apart:
- 875 goals
- 389 assists (Most in football history)
- 1,263 total goal contributions (Goals + Assists)
At 36, Messi shows no signs of slowing down. Whether he surpasses Ronaldo’s tally or not, his legacy as one of football’s greatest is undeniable. With every match, he continues to redefine excellence.
What’s next for Messi? Will he break Ronaldo’s record? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.