Lionel Messi vs Pelé
type: Article
description: Messi has surpassed Pelé in career goal-scoring records and free-kicks as of 2026, achieving 900+ career goals compared to Pelé's 757-1,283 disputed total, while Pelé dominated an earlier era with 3 World Cups versus Messi's 1 championship. Both are considered among football's greatest players, but Messi's statistical achievements in the modern era have now eclipsed Pelé's legendary legacy.
language: en-US
date published: 2026-05-08T14:36:42.432Z
date created: 2026-05-08T14:36:42.432Z
date modified: 2026-08-18T09:00:23.978Z
content reference time: 2026-08-18T09:00:23.978Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
about: Lionel Messi
about: Pelé
abstract: Messi has surpassed Pelé in career goal-scoring records and free-kicks as of 2026, achieving 900+ career goals compared to Pelé's 757-1,283 disputed total, while Pelé dominated an earlier era with 3 World Cups versus Messi's 1 championship. Both are considered among football's greatest players, but Messi's statistical achievements in the modern era have now eclipsed Pelé's legendary legacy.
text: Career Goals. FIFA World Cup Wins. Ballon d'Or Awards. Direct Free-Kicks Scored. Goals for Single Club. Playing Era. International Caps
conclusion text: Messi has objectively achieved more individual statistical milestones in the modern era with 900+ career goals, 71 free-kick goals, and 8 Ballon d'Or awards. However, Pelé's 3 World Cup victories remain unmatched and were achieved in a different competitive landscape across fewer total matches. Choose Messi if evaluating pure goal-scoring prowess and individual honors in contemporary football; choose Pelé if prioritizing World Cup dominance and historical significance in the sport's development.
additional property: Ballon d'Or Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 8 | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Career Goals
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 810 | Pelé: 757-1,283 (disputed)
  value reference: Pelé
additional property: Career Assists
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 192+ | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Champions League Titles
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 4 | Pelé: N/A
additional property: World Cup Titles
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 1 | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Height
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 170cm | Pelé: N/A
additional property: International Goals
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 106 in 180 caps | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Direct Free-Kicks Scored
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 71 | Pelé: ~50 (estimated)
  value reference: Lionel Messi
additional property: Goals for Single Club
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 643 (Barcelona) | Pelé: 643 (Santos)
additional property: Playing Career Span
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 34 (1992-2026) | Pelé: 21 (1956-1977)
  value reference: Lionel Messi
additional property: Copa America Titles
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 2 (2021, 2024) | Pelé: 0
  value reference: Lionel Messi
additional property: International Goals Scored
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 97 goals | Pelé: 77
  value reference: Lionel Messi
additional property: Total Career Club Goals
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 672 goals | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Peak Dribble Success Rate
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 67% | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Leagues Won at Elite Level
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 4 leagues | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Career Length at Elite Performance
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 19 years (2004-2023) | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Goals Per Game (Club Peak Period)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 0.73 per match | Pelé: N/A
additional property: UEFA Champions League Titles
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 4 titles | Pelé: N/A
additional property: FIFA World Cup Achievements
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: Winner 2022 (7 goals) | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Career Club Goals (Top 5 Leagues)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 672 goals | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Peak Transfer Market Value
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: $150 million (2018) | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Instagram Followers
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 88 million | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Career Club Assists (Top 5 Leagues)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 192 assists | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Career Club Goals
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 810+ | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Peak Goals Per Season Average
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 56 (2011-12) | Pelé: N/A
additional property: La Liga Championships
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 10 | Pelé: N/A
additional property: FIFA World Cup Wins
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 1 (2022) | Pelé: N/A
additional property: World Cup Wins
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 1 (2022) | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Peak Performance Duration
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 6 years (ages 24-30) | Pelé: N/A
additional property: 1986 World Cup Goal Contribution
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 6 goals + 1 assist in 2022 | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Ballon d'Or Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 8 | Pelé: 0
  value reference: Lionel Messi
additional property: International Goals (Career)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 109 goals | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Club Goals (Career)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 474+ goals | Pelé: N/A
additional property: FIFA World Cup Victory
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 1 World Cup (2022) | Pelé: N/A
additional property: International Appearances
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 180 | Pelé: 92
  value reference: Lionel Messi
additional property: FIFA World Cups Won
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 1 (2022) | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Dribbles Per Match
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 4.2 | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Career Span
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 21 years (2004-2025) | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Current Age
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 39 years | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Peak Sprint Speed
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 28.4 | Pelé: N/A
additional property: 2024-25 Season Goals
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 16 | Pelé: N/A
additional property: 2024-25 Season Assists
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 10 | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Career Goals per Game Ratio
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 0.79 | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Major Career Trophies
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 44 | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Injury Absence Rate (2024-25)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 12% | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Optimal Match Duration
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 68 | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Top Speed
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 29.1 km/h | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Goals per Season (2024-25)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 10 goals | Pelé: N/A
additional property: Assists per Season (2024-25)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Lionel Messi: 14 assists | Pelé: N/A
interactivity type: active
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/lionel-messi
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/lionel-messi
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/pel
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/pel
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/answer/lionel-messi-vs-pele
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/v1/schema/lionel-messi-vs-pele
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teaches: How to choose between Lionel Messi and Pelé
genre: Sports

primaryImage
type: ImageObject
width: 1200
height: 630
caption: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B

A Versus B
type: Organization

Lionel Messi
type: Person
alternate name: LM
language: en-US
description: Argentine playmaker-forward with 8 Ballon d'Or awards, 2 World Cups, and 35 major trophies including record-breaking individual seasons
image: ImageObject
  caption: Lionel Messi
subject of: Lionel Messi vs Pelé
image: ImageObject
  caption: Lionel Messi

Pelé
type: Person
alternate name: Pel
language: en-US
description: Brazilian forward (1940-) who won 3 FIFA World Cups, scored 77 international goals, and is credited with globalizing soccer.
image: ImageObject
  caption: Pelé
subject of: Lionel Messi vs Pelé
image: ImageObject
  caption: Pelé

Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Structured Comparison Data
type: Dataset
description: Machine-readable comparison dataset for Lionel Messi vs Pelé. Contains 102 attribute comparisons, 5 FAQ pairs.
language: en-US
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
creator: A Versus B
distribution: JSON-LD knowledge graph
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json+ld
distribution: Raw comparison JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Structured FAQ pairs JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: AI Answer API (citation-ready)
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Related comparisons JSON
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  encoding format: application/json
variable measured: Ballon d'Or Awards
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  value reference: Awards
variable measured: Career Goals
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  value reference: Scoring
variable measured: Career Assists
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  value reference: Playmaking
variable measured: Champions League Titles
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  value reference: Trophies
variable measured: World Cup Titles
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variable measured: Height
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variable measured: International Goals
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variable measured: Direct Free-Kicks Scored
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variable measured: Goals for Single Club
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Club Performance
variable measured: Playing Career Span
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Longevity
variable measured: Copa America Titles
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Continental Trophies
variable measured: International Goals Scored
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scoring Record
variable measured: Total Career Club Goals
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scoring
variable measured: Peak Dribble Success Rate
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Technical Skills
variable measured: Leagues Won at Elite Level
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Team Achievements
variable measured: Career Length at Elite Performance
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Longevity
variable measured: Goals Per Game (Club Peak Period)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Efficiency
variable measured: UEFA Champions League Titles
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: European Trophies
variable measured: FIFA World Cup Achievements
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: International Honors
variable measured: Career Club Goals (Top 5 Leagues)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scoring Record
variable measured: Peak Transfer Market Value
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Market Valuation
variable measured: Instagram Followers
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Social Media Reach
variable measured: Career Club Assists (Top 5 Leagues)
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variable measured: Career Club Goals
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Peak Goals Per Season Average
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: La Liga Championships
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Club Trophies
variable measured: FIFA World Cup Wins
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variable measured: World Cup Wins
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Major Trophies
variable measured: Peak Performance Duration
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  value reference: Longevity
variable measured: 1986 World Cup Goal Contribution
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Tournament Impact
variable measured: Ballon d'Or Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Individual Recognition
variable measured: International Goals (Career)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: International Performance
variable measured: Club Goals (Career)
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: FIFA World Cup Victory
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: International Appearances
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: FIFA World Cups Won
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Dribbles Per Match
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Technical Ability
variable measured: Career Span
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Longevity
variable measured: Current Age
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Physical Profile
variable measured: Peak Sprint Speed
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Physical Attributes
variable measured: 2024-25 Season Goals
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance Metrics
variable measured: 2024-25 Season Assists
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Career Goals per Game Ratio
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Offensive Performance
variable measured: Major Career Trophies
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Achievement
variable measured: Injury Absence Rate (2024-25)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Availability
variable measured: Optimal Match Duration
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Physical Capacity
variable measured: Top Speed
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Athletic Performance
variable measured: Goals per Season (2024-25)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Offensive Output
variable measured: Assists per Season (2024-25)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Offensive Output
variable measured: Pass Accuracy
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Technical Skills
variable measured: Ball Control Rating (Opta)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Technical Skills
variable measured: Major International Trophies
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Achievement
variable measured: Injury Days Missed (2024)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Health & Availability
variable measured: Ballon d'Or Awards (Career)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Individual Honours
variable measured: Career Assists (Club + International)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Playmaking
variable measured: Vertical Jump Height
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Physical Attributes
variable measured: Copa América / Euro Championships Won
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Major Honours
variable measured: Career Club Trophies
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Club Honours
variable measured: Champions League Titles
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Club Trophies
variable measured: Career Matches Played
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Durability
variable measured: Goals Per Match Ratio
variable measured: Major Trophies Won
variable measured: World Cup Success
variable measured: Career Goals Scored
variable measured: Club Career Goals
variable measured: Total Career Trophies
variable measured: Major Leagues Played In
variable measured: FIFA World Cup Performance
variable measured: Career Goals (All Competitions)
is based on: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/lionel-messi-vs-pele

Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary
type: DefinedTermSet
language: en-US
description: Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for Lionel Messi vs Pelé.
has defined term: Awards
has defined term: Scoring
has defined term: Playmaking
has defined term: Trophies
has defined term: Physical Attributes
has defined term: International
has defined term: Specialty Skills
has defined term: Club Performance
has defined term: Longevity
has defined term: Continental Trophies
has defined term: Scoring Record
has defined term: Technical Skills
has defined term: Team Achievements
has defined term: Efficiency
has defined term: European Trophies
has defined term: International Honors
has defined term: Market Valuation
has defined term: Social Media Reach
has defined term: Goal Scoring
has defined term: Club Trophies
has defined term: International Trophies
has defined term: Major Trophies
has defined term: Tournament Impact
has defined term: Individual Recognition
has defined term: International Performance
has defined term: Major Tournament Success
has defined term: Team Honours
has defined term: Technical Ability
has defined term: Physical Profile
has defined term: Performance Metrics
has defined term: Offensive Performance
has defined term: Achievement
has defined term: Availability
has defined term: Physical Capacity
has defined term: Athletic Performance
has defined term: Offensive Output
has defined term: Health & Availability
has defined term: Individual Honours
has defined term: Major Honours
has defined term: Club Honours
has defined term: Durability
has defined term: Tournament Success
has defined term: Offensive Statistics
has defined term: Team Success
has defined term: Career Diversity
has defined term: International Tournaments
has defined term: International Achievement
has defined term: Career Longevity
has defined term: Domestic League
has defined term: Trophy Count
has defined term: Domestic
has defined term: International Major
has defined term: International Play
has defined term: Individual Honors
has defined term: Individual Awards
has defined term: Domestic Trophies
has defined term: Club Competition
has defined term: Career Path
has defined term: Creative Output
has defined term: Peak Performance
has defined term: Domestic League Success
has defined term: Overall Silverware
has defined term: Major Achievements
has defined term: Scoring Efficiency
has defined term: Tournament Peak
has defined term: Club Achievements

Awards
type: DefinedTerm
term code: awards
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Scoring
type: DefinedTerm
term code: scoring
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Playmaking
type: DefinedTerm
term code: playmaking
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Trophies
type: DefinedTerm
term code: trophies
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Physical Attributes
type: DefinedTerm
term code: physical-attributes
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

International
type: DefinedTerm
term code: international
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Specialty Skills
type: DefinedTerm
term code: specialty-skills
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Club Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: club-performance
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Longevity
type: DefinedTerm
term code: longevity
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Continental Trophies
type: DefinedTerm
term code: continental-trophies
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Scoring Record
type: DefinedTerm
term code: scoring-record
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Technical Skills
type: DefinedTerm
term code: technical-skills
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Team Achievements
type: DefinedTerm
term code: team-achievements
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Efficiency
type: DefinedTerm
term code: efficiency
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

European Trophies
type: DefinedTerm
term code: european-trophies
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

International Honors
type: DefinedTerm
term code: international-honors
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Market Valuation
type: DefinedTerm
term code: market-valuation
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Social Media Reach
type: DefinedTerm
term code: social-media-reach
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Goal Scoring
type: DefinedTerm
term code: goal-scoring
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Club Trophies
type: DefinedTerm
term code: club-trophies
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

International Trophies
type: DefinedTerm
term code: international-trophies
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Major Trophies
type: DefinedTerm
term code: major-trophies
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Tournament Impact
type: DefinedTerm
term code: tournament-impact
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Individual Recognition
type: DefinedTerm
term code: individual-recognition
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

International Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: international-performance
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Major Tournament Success
type: DefinedTerm
term code: major-tournament-success
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Team Honours
type: DefinedTerm
term code: team-honours
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Technical Ability
type: DefinedTerm
term code: technical-ability
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Physical Profile
type: DefinedTerm
term code: physical-profile
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Performance Metrics
type: DefinedTerm
term code: performance-metrics
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Offensive Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: offensive-performance
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Achievement
type: DefinedTerm
term code: achievement
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Availability
type: DefinedTerm
term code: availability
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Physical Capacity
type: DefinedTerm
term code: physical-capacity
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Athletic Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: athletic-performance
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Offensive Output
type: DefinedTerm
term code: offensive-output
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Health & Availability
type: DefinedTerm
term code: health-&-availability
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Individual Honours
type: DefinedTerm
term code: individual-honours
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Major Honours
type: DefinedTerm
term code: major-honours
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Club Honours
type: DefinedTerm
term code: club-honours
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Durability
type: DefinedTerm
term code: durability
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Tournament Success
type: DefinedTerm
term code: tournament-success
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Offensive Statistics
type: DefinedTerm
term code: offensive-statistics
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Team Success
type: DefinedTerm
term code: team-success
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Career Diversity
type: DefinedTerm
term code: career-diversity
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

International Tournaments
type: DefinedTerm
term code: international-tournaments
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

International Achievement
type: DefinedTerm
term code: international-achievement
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Career Longevity
type: DefinedTerm
term code: career-longevity
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Domestic League
type: DefinedTerm
term code: domestic-league
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Trophy Count
type: DefinedTerm
term code: trophy-count
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Domestic
type: DefinedTerm
term code: domestic
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

International Major
type: DefinedTerm
term code: international-major
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

International Play
type: DefinedTerm
term code: international-play
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Individual Honors
type: DefinedTerm
term code: individual-honors
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Individual Awards
type: DefinedTerm
term code: individual-awards
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Domestic Trophies
type: DefinedTerm
term code: domestic-trophies
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Club Competition
type: DefinedTerm
term code: club-competition
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Career Path
type: DefinedTerm
term code: career-path
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Creative Output
type: DefinedTerm
term code: creative-output
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Peak Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: peak-performance
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Domestic League Success
type: DefinedTerm
term code: domestic-league-success
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Overall Silverware
type: DefinedTerm
term code: overall-silverware
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Major Achievements
type: DefinedTerm
term code: major-achievements
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Scoring Efficiency
type: DefinedTerm
term code: scoring-efficiency
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Tournament Peak
type: DefinedTerm
term code: tournament-peak
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Club Achievements
type: DefinedTerm
term code: club-achievements
in defined term set: Lionel Messi vs Pelé — Attribute Category Vocabulary

faq
type: FAQPage
language: en-US
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
date modified: 2026-08-18T09:00:23.978Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
is part of: lionel-messi-vs-pele
main entity: How many career goals does Messi have compared to Pelé?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: As of 2026, Messi has 900+ official career goals across club and international football. Pelé's official FIFA-recognized tally is approximately 767 competitive goals, though Santos F.C. and some sources cite 1,000+ when including unofficial and exhibition matches. By competitive goals in official matches, Messi leads Pelé.
    language: en-US
main entity: How many Ballon d'Or awards does Messi have?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Messi has won 8 Ballon d'Or awards — more than any player in history. His wins came in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, and 2023. The Ballon d'Or did not exist in its current form during Pelé's career (it was restricted to European players until 1995).
    language: en-US
main entity: Did Messi ever win the World Cup?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Yes. Messi won the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in 2022, defeating France in a dramatic penalty shootout final. This was considered the missing piece of his legacy argument. He also won the Copa América with Argentina in 2021, ending a 28-year international title drought for the country.
    language: en-US
main entity: How many World Cups did Pelé win?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Pelé won three FIFA World Cups: 1958 (age 17), 1962 (played fewer matches due to injury), and 1970 — a record no other player has matched. His 1970 Brazil team is widely considered the greatest World Cup team ever assembled. No other player in history has three World Cup winner's medals.
    language: en-US
main entity: Who is considered the greatest of all time — Messi or Pelé?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: There is no consensus. Most current football analysts, managers, and former players name Messi as the GOAT, citing his superior statistics in modern competitive football, 8 Ballon d'Or awards, and 2022 World Cup. Many older generations and Brazilians name Pelé, citing his three World Cups and dominance in his era. Both are legitimate answers depending on what you weigh most heavily.
    language: en-US

How to Choose Between Lionel Messi and Pelé
type: HowTo
description: Messi has surpassed Pelé in career goal-scoring records and free-kicks as of 2026, achieving 900+ career goals compared to Pelé's 757-1,283 disputed total, while Pelé dominated an earlier era with 3 World Cups versus Messi's 1 championship. Both are considered among football's greatest players, but Messi's statistical achievements in the modern era have now eclipsed Pelé's legendary legacy.
language: en-US
total time: PT3M
step: Consider: Career Goals
step: Consider: FIFA World Cup Wins
step: Consider: Ballon d'Or Awards
step: Consider: Direct Free-Kicks Scored
step: Consider: Goals for Single Club
step: Consider: Playing Era
step: Consider: International Caps
tool: A Versus B Comparison Guide
tip: HowToTip
  text: Messi has objectively achieved more individual statistical milestones in the modern era with 900+ career goals, 71 free-kick goals, and 8 Ballon d'Or awards. However, Pelé's 3 World Cup victories remain unmatched and were achieved in a different competitive landscape across fewer total matches. Choose Messi if evaluating pure goal-scoring prowess and individual honors in contemporary football; choose Pelé if prioritizing World Cup dominance and historical significance in the sport's development.

Consider: Career Goals
type: HowToStep
position: 1
text: Career Goals: Lionel Messi has 900+, while Pelé has 757-1,283 (disputed).

Consider: FIFA World Cup Wins
type: HowToStep
position: 2
text: FIFA World Cup Wins: Lionel Messi has 1 (2022), while Pelé has 3 (1958, 1962, 1970).

Consider: Ballon d'Or Awards
type: HowToStep
position: 3
text: Ballon d'Or Awards: Lionel Messi has 8, while Pelé has 0 (award didn't exist).

Consider: Direct Free-Kicks Scored
type: HowToStep
position: 4
text: Direct Free-Kicks Scored: Lionel Messi has 71, while Pelé has ~50 (estimated).

Consider: Goals for Single Club
type: HowToStep
position: 5
text: Goals for Single Club: Lionel Messi has 643 (Barcelona), while Pelé has 643 (Santos).

Consider: Playing Era
type: HowToStep
position: 6
text: Playing Era: Lionel Messi has 1992-2026 (Modern), while Pelé has 1956-1977 (Classic).

Consider: International Caps
type: HowToStep
position: 7
text: International Caps: Lionel Messi has 180+, while Pelé has 92.

Lionel Messi vs Pelé
type: SportsEvent
description: Messi has surpassed Pelé in career goal-scoring records and free-kicks as of 2026, achieving 900+ career goals compared to Pelé's 757-1,283 disputed total, while Pelé dominated an earlier era with 3 World Cups versus Messi's 1 championship. Both are considered among football's greatest players, but Messi's statistical achievements in the modern era have now eclipsed Pelé's legendary legacy.
language: en-US
start date: 2026-08-18T09:00:23.978Z
competitor: Lionel Messi
  type: Person
  description: Argentine playmaker-forward with 8 Ballon d'Or awards, 2 World Cups, and 35 major trophies including record-breaking individual seasons
competitor: Pelé
  type: Person
  description: Brazilian forward (1940-) who won 3 FIFA World Cups, scored 77 international goals, and is credited with globalizing soccer.
organizer: A Versus B
is accessible for free: true

claimreview
type: ClaimReview
language: en-US
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
claim reviewed: Lionel Messi is better than Pelé
review body: Messi has surpassed Pelé in career goal-scoring records and free-kicks as of 2026, achieving 900+ career goals compared to Pelé's 757-1,283 disputed total, while Pelé dominated an earlier era with 3 World Cups versus Messi's 1 championship. Both are considered among football's greatest players, but Messi's statistical achievements in the modern era have now eclipsed Pelé's legendary legacy.
date published: 2026-05-08
date modified: 2026-08-18
review rating: Rating
  rating: MIXTURE
  best rating: TRUE
  worst rating: FALSE
  alternate name: Depends on use case — see analysis
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
item reviewed: Lionel Messi is better than Pelé
  type: Claim
  language: en-US
  text: Messi has surpassed Pelé in career goal-scoring records and free-kicks as of 2026, achieving 900+ career goals compared to Pelé's 757-1,283 disputed total, while Pelé dominated an earlier era with 3 World Cups versus Messi's 1 championship. Both are considered among football's greatest players, but
  author: Internet consensus
  appearance: lionel-messi-vs-pele
  first appearance: lionel-messi-vs-pele

Pass Accuracy
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 87% | Pelé: N/A

Ball Control Rating (Opta)
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 8.8/10 | Pelé: N/A

Major International Trophies
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 3 trophies | Pelé: N/A

Injury Days Missed (2024)
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 12 days | Pelé: N/A

Ballon d'Or Awards (Career)
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 8 awards | Pelé: N/A

Career Assists (Club + International)
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: ~350 assists | Pelé: N/A

Vertical Jump Height
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: ~74cm | Pelé: N/A

Copa América / Euro Championships Won
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 2 (2021, 2024) | Pelé: N/A

Career Club Trophies
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 45+ trophies | Pelé: N/A

Champions League Titles
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 4 | Pelé: N/A

Career Matches Played
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 1,070+ | Pelé: N/A

Goals Per Match Ratio
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 0.82 | Pelé: N/A

Major Trophies Won
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 43 | Pelé: N/A

World Cup Success
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 1 championship (2022) | Pelé: N/A

Career Goals Scored
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 800+ | Pelé: N/A

Club Career Goals
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 822 | Pelé: N/A

Total Career Trophies
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 45 | Pelé: N/A

Major Leagues Played In
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 2 (La Liga, Ligue 1) | Pelé: N/A

FIFA World Cup Performance
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: Champion 2022, Finals MVP, 5 appearances | Pelé: N/A

Career Goals (All Competitions)
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 808+ | Pelé: N/A

Goals Per Game Ratio
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 1.00 | Pelé: N/A

Career Span at Elite Level
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 19+ years (2004-2023) | Pelé: N/A

International Tournament Titles
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 2 (2021 Copa America + Euro runner-up) | Pelé: N/A

Years as Top Scorer (Career Span)
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 17+ years (2004-2026) | Pelé: N/A

La Liga/Ligue 1/Serie A Titles
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 10 (8 La Liga, 2 Ligue 1) | Pelé: N/A

FIFA World Cup Victories
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 1 title (2022) | Pelé: N/A

Professional Career Length
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 20 years (2004-2024) | Pelé: N/A

Copa América Titles
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 2 titles (2021, 2024) | Pelé: N/A

Total Major Trophies
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 46 | Pelé: N/A

FIFA World Cup Titles
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 2 | Pelé: 3 (1958, 1962, 1970)
value reference: Pelé

Domestic League Titles
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 16 | Pelé: N/A

Countries Won League Titles In
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 3 | Pelé: N/A

National Team Major Tournament Wins
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 3 (1 World Cup + 2 Copa América) | Pelé: N/A

International Caps
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 180 | Pelé: N/A

Career Assists (Club Level)
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 200+ | Pelé: N/A

Peak Ballon d'Or Wins (Consecutive)
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 4 (2009-2012) | Pelé: N/A

The Best FIFA Player Awards
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 8 awards | Pelé: N/A

Career Club Goals (All Competitions)
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 805+ goals | Pelé: N/A

La Liga Titles
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 10 titles | Pelé: N/A

Major International Tournament Wins
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 1 win (Copa América 2021) | Pelé: N/A

Professional Career Span
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 23 years (2003-2026) | Pelé: N/A

UEFA Champions League Goals
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 129 | Pelé: N/A

Clubs Played For
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 7 clubs | Pelé: N/A

Career Assists (All Competitions)
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 350+ | Pelé: N/A

Peak Season Goals (Best Year)
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 73 (2011-12 season) | Pelé: N/A

La Liga / Serie A Titles
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 10 (La Liga) | Pelé: N/A

Total Major Trophies (Club + International)
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: 35 | Pelé: N/A

FIFA World Cup Titles Won
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: N/A | Pelé: 3

International Goals-Per-Match Ratio
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: N/A | Pelé: 0.84

1986 World Cup Performance
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: N/A | Pelé: N/A (did not play)

Club Domestic League Titles
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: N/A | Pelé: 10 (Santos, Cosmos)

Copa Libertadores/South American Club Titles
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: N/A | Pelé: 3

Peak Career Years
type: PropertyValue
value: Lionel Messi: N/A | Pelé: 1958-1970 (ages 18-30)

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Lionel Messi — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Pelé — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Compare Lionel Messi vs Pelé
type: Action
additional type: CompareAction
target: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/lionel-messi-vs-pele
object: Lionel Messi
object: Pelé

Goals Per Match Ratio
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Efficiency

Major Trophies Won
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Team Honours

World Cup Success
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Tournament Success

Career Goals Scored
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Offensive Statistics

Club Career Goals
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Club Performance

Total Career Trophies
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Team Success

Major Leagues Played In
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Career Diversity

FIFA World Cup Performance
type: PropertyValue
value reference: International Tournaments

Career Goals (All Competitions)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Offensive Output

Goals Per Game Ratio
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Efficiency

Career Span at Elite Level
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Longevity

International Tournament Titles
type: PropertyValue
value reference: International Achievement

Years as Top Scorer (Career Span)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Career Longevity

La Liga/Ligue 1/Serie A Titles
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Domestic League

FIFA World Cup Victories
type: PropertyValue
value reference: International Honors

Professional Career Length
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Longevity

Copa América Titles
type: PropertyValue
value reference: International Trophies

Total Major Trophies
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Trophy Count

FIFA World Cup Titles
type: PropertyValue
value reference: International Trophies

Domestic League Titles
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Domestic

Countries Won League Titles In
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Career Diversity

National Team Major Tournament Wins
type: PropertyValue
value reference: International Major

International Caps
type: PropertyValue
value reference: International Play

Career Assists (Club Level)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Offensive Statistics

Peak Ballon d'Or Wins (Consecutive)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Individual Honors

The Best FIFA Player Awards
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Individual Awards

Career Club Goals (All Competitions)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Goal Scoring

La Liga Titles
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Domestic Trophies

Major International Tournament Wins
type: PropertyValue
value reference: International Trophies

Professional Career Span
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Career Longevity

UEFA Champions League Goals
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Club Competition

Clubs Played For
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Career Path

Career Assists (All Competitions)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Creative Output

Peak Season Goals (Best Year)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Peak Performance

La Liga / Serie A Titles
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Domestic League Success

Total Major Trophies (Club + International)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Overall Silverware

FIFA World Cup Titles Won
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Major Achievements

International Goals-Per-Match Ratio
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scoring Efficiency

1986 World Cup Performance
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Tournament Peak

Club Domestic League Titles
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Club Achievements

Copa Libertadores/South American Club Titles
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Club Achievements

Peak Career Years
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Career Longevity