Lionel Messi has set a new record for the most non-penalty goals scored in football history, surpassing his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
The milestone was reached during Major League Soccer’s (MLS) 2025 mfatch between Inter Miami and the New York Red Bulls. Messi scored twice in the game, helping Inter Miami to a 5-1 victory. His two goals, in the 60th and 75th minutes, brought his total non-penalty goals to 764—one more than Ronaldo’s previous record of 763.
Messi achieved this feat in 1,114 matches, while Ronaldo reached his tally in 1,281 games. This difference highlights Messi’s scoring efficiency and consistency throughout his career, particularly in open play.
Non-penalty goals are often seen as a strong measure of a footballer’s natural scoring talent since they exclude penalties, which are considered easier opportunities to score.
Messi has been in excellent form this season, scoring six braces—two goals in a single game—in his last seven MLS matches. He currently leads the league with 18 goals in 2025.
Although Messi and Ronaldo now play in different leagues and are nearing the end of their careers, this record adds a new chapter to their historic rivalry. Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has played a major role in improving the club’s performance and attracting global attention to MLS.
As the season continues, Messi is expected to keep adding to his record, further solidifying his legacy as one of football’s all-time greats.
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