Lionel Messi surpasses Ronaldo in non-penalty goals with historic milestone

Lionel Messi has once again etched his name in football history by surpassing longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo in total non-penalty goals scored in official matches. During Inter Miami's clash with New York Red Bulls, the Argentine superstar netted a brilliant brace, bringing his tally of non-penalty goals to 764, one more than Ronaldo’s 763.

 

What makes this achievement even more remarkable is the fact that Messi reached this milestone in 167 fewer appearances than the Portuguese forward. The comparison not only highlights Messi’s clinical efficiency in front of goal but also his sustained brilliance over nearly two decades at the top level. 

 

???????? Lionel Messi masterclass ???? New York Red Bulls:  90 mins played  2 goals  1 assist  68 touches  6 duels won  4 chances created  1 big chance created  10 final third passes  100% tackles won  ⭐️ Perfect 10 SofaScore rating.  Too easy for him. ???? pic.twitter.com/24CgtQdqOz

— HF World (@hfworld_) July 20, 2025

 

 

Blistering MLS form since Club World Cup return

 

Since returning from the FIFA Club World Cup, Messi has been in sensational form in Major League Soccer. The 2022 World Cup champion has scored back-to-back braces in five consecutive MLS matches, an unprecedented streak in league history. His goal-scoring spree includes dominant performances against teams like CF Montréal, Columbus Crew, and Nashville SC. No other player in MLS history has scored two or more goals in five straight games, further underlining Messi’s enduring class and consistency. 

Players with non-penalty goals
Players	Non-penalty goals
Lionel Messi	764
Cristiano Ronaldo	763
Robert Lewandowski	622
Luis Suarez	537
Zlatan Ibrahimovic	488
Karim Benzema	456
Edin Dzeko	426
Edinson Cavani	403
Sergio Aguero	378
Samuel Eto'o	378

 

Messi maintains his legacy in the United States

 

Even in the later stages of his career, Messi continues to deliver at an elite level, silencing any doubts about his longevity. His presence has been instrumental in Inter Miami’s resurgence, especially after a tough 3–0 loss to FC Cincinnati. Messi’s leadership and goal-scoring prowess have reinvigorated the team, keeping them competitive in the playoff race. 

 

With this latest milestone, Messi strengthens his claim as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Not only has he outshone his closest rival in a key statistical category, but he has done so with flair, humility, and efficiency that define his legendary career. As his MLS journey continues, fans and critics alike are witnessing a masterclass in late-career dominance.

 

Messi vs Ronaldo: The debate still goes on!

 

Many fans still debate over Messi playing in the MLS where the competition is not quite difficult as compared to that of in Ronaldo's Saudi Pro League as was seen in the FIFA Club World Cup when Al Hilal gave Real Madrid a run for their money and grabbed a crucial draw in the tournament as well against the Spanish heavyweights.