Lionel Messi showcased his brilliance once again, scoring twice to guide Inter Miami to a 3-2 victory over Columbus Crew, clinching the MLS Supporters’ Shield for the first time in the club’s history.
The Argentine superstar opened the scoring with a clinical close-range finish before doubling Miami’s lead just before halftime with a trademark free-kick. These goals proved crucial in securing the win and the trophy for Miami.
Columbus Crew’s Diego Rossi managed to pull one back for the home side, but former Liverpool striker Luis Suarez restored Inter Miami’s two-goal cushion. A late penalty from Cucho Hernandez added tension to the closing moments, but Miami held on for the historic win.
This victory ensures Inter Miami will finish top of the MLS regular season standings, earning them the Supporters’ Shield – a first for the club since their MLS debut in 2020. The achievement marks Messi’s 46th career trophy, further cementing his status as one of the most decorated players in football history.
By securing the top spot, Miami have also guaranteed home-field advantage throughout the upcoming post-season playoffs, a factor Messi highlighted as crucial: “We have the great advantage of playing all the games at home, which is what we were looking for. We are very strong at home.”
The club now has its sights set on potentially breaking the MLS record for most points in a regular season. With two games remaining, Miami needs two more wins to surpass the 73 points set by the New England Revolution in 2021.
Messi’s impact since joining Inter Miami has been transformative, elevating the team’s performance and bringing unprecedented success to the young franchise. As the playoffs approach, all eyes will be on Messi and his teammates as they aim to add more silverware to their cabinet in their remarkable debut season together.
Image Credits: Inter Miami X
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