Although Inter Miami faced an early exit from the 2024 MLS Playoffs, Lionel Messi achieved a remarkable milestone by scoring his 850th career goal against Atlanta United, surpassing the record held by his rival Cristiano Ronaldo. 

While Messi's goal could not rescue Miami, it was enough to make him the second player in history to reach 850 career goals, accomplishing this feat quicker than Ronaldo. Ronaldo's goals highlight his impressive physicality, strategic positioning, and aerial skills, while Messi's finishing is a testament to his finesse, agility, and creative playmaking ability.

Messi Quickest to 850 career goals 

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have both reached the landmark of 850 goals. Messi accomplished this in 1,081 matches, while Ronaldo achieved the same feat in 1,179 games. Messi needed 98 fewer matches to reach this significant number. Notably, Ronaldo celebrated his 850th career goal in September 2023.

Messi’s playing style has changed over time, but he has still remained effective in scoring goals. During his time at Barcelona, he was recognized for his swift passing, fluid movements, and exceptional ball control, often setting up his own opportunities or placing himself perfectly to capitalize on expertly constructed plays. Upon moving to PSG, he adjusted to a different league, and continued to perform at a high level. Now, as part of Inter Miami in the MLS, he plays both as a creative force and a dependable goal scorer.

Ronaldo was the first but Messi is the quickest 

Ronaldo was the first player to break the 800-goal barrier, reaching this incredible milestone in late 2021 during his second spell with Manchester United. Currently, on the all-time goalscorer list, Ronaldo leads with 908 goals, followed by Messi, while Pelé holds the third position with 765 goals, according to FIFA.

The Argentine star has an impressive record of 672 goals for Barcelona, 32 for PSG, and is currently boasting 34 goals with Inter Miami. With the Argentine national team, he has netted 112 goals to date, while Ronaldo has netted 133 goals in 2016 international appearances for Portugal.

Messi leads in goal-scoring efficiency, with a remarkable ratio of 0.79 goals per game, while Ronaldo follows with 0.73. When analyzing goals per minute, Messi finds the back of the net every 104 minutes, whereas Ronaldo scores every 112 minutes.