Lionel Messi Equals David Beckham’s Freekick Goals Record With Brilliant Freekick for Argentina

• Lionel Messi scored the only goal for Argentina in their win against Ecuador
• The world champions began the qualifying series for the next World Cup
• Messi's freekick goal helped him move level with Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham

Lionel Messi scored a brilliant freekick to help Argentina beat Ecuador in the CONMEBOL qualifying series-opening game for the 2026 World Cup.

The world champions began the journey to qualify for the defence of their crown against a difficult South American counterpart at the El Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

It took 78 minutes and Messi's magic to break the Ecuadorians and secure all three points for the Copa America champions, who had to put up a disciplined defensive display to stay in the game.

The goal helped the captain move places up in two different records, one of which was equalling Luis Suarez's 29 goals as the most in South American World Cup qualifiers, as reported by Republic World.

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Messi equals Beckham's freekick goals

Every day and with every goal, you get to hear that Messi has matched, surpassed, or set a new record, and his goal against Ecuador was no exception.

According to MessivsRonaldo app, the freekick was the 65th of his career, his fifth in 2023 and his 11th for the national team. It was also the fourth in a World Cup qualifier.

By scoring 65, he moves level with Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham, who also scored 65 during his career. He remains far off the top, with Brazilian striker Juninho holding firm with 77.

He is one away from tying Brazilian legend Ronaldinho on 66. The former Barcelona star assisted Messi's first career goal.

Messi's substitution against Ecuador

Sports Brief reported on why Messi was substituted against Ecuador as head coach Lionel Scaloni cleared the air on hauling him off in the 87th minute after he put the team ahead.

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Scaloni claimed it was the captain's request to be brought off, which the Inter Miami star claimed was due to tiredness and that he is fine and not injured as many thought.

For whatever reason he came off, it left fans worried they might be getting to the end of watching him play.