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Free-kick goal (Source: Twitter)
There are many beautiful sights in the game of football, one of which is the ball shaking the opposition net through a free-kick. To score a free-kick goal, the striker must beat the opposing team's defenders and goalkeeper and find a narrow gap to sneak it into the net. One needs immense practice to gain accuracy in gap detection. Also requires a strong presence of mind and strength.
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In this article, we look at the top 5 players who have scored the most free-kick goals in football history.
5. Lionel Messi (65 goals)
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Modern-day legend Lionel Messi has scored 65 goals from the free-kick as of now. He is the fifth-highest goal scorer by this method and first in the list of active players. His spectacular bending long-range shots have won many games for Argentina and Barcelona. England legend David Beckham has also scored as many goals through free-kick.
4. Victor Legrotaglie (66 goals)
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Retired Argentine midfielder Victor Legrotaglie is fourth on this list with 66 free-kick goals. His technical ability and incredible striking skills impressed everyone. Although he received offers from Real Madrid and Inter Milan, the 86-year-old spent his entire career at local side Gimnasia y Esgrima, where he began his professional career in 1953.
3. Ronaldinho (68 goals)
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Known for his flicks, tricks, jaw-dropping dribbles and strikes, Ronaldinho was a joy to watch on the field. Former Brazil attacking midfielder and winger has also dazzled fans at clubs such as Barcelona, AC Milan and Gremio. His ability to sneak the ball into the opposition net from outside the box resulted in 68 goals.
2. Pele (70 goals)
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One of the greatest players of all time, Pele has reportedly scored a staggering 1,279 goals in 1,363 matches. The legendary forward was a ball-striking specialist as he scored an impressive 70 free-kick goals for Brazil, Santos and the New York Cosmos. Pele, who won a record three World Cups in 1958, 1962 and 1970, was among the most successful and popular sports figures of the 20th century.
1. Juninho Pernambucano (77 goals)
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Former Brazil international Juninho was more of a free-kick specialist than anyone else. With 77 free-kick goals, Juninho holds the record for most goals scored in this manner. His curling clear-cut shoots from long range were a treat to watch. He also played for clubs like Vasco da Gama and Lyon.