Lionel Messi had added another trophy to his collection, helping Inter Miami secure the MLS Supporters’ Shield following a thrilling 3-2 win against Columbus Crew SC.
Since his arrival from Paris-Saint Germain, Messi has continued to make an impact for the Herons. In what many are calling the most exciting matches of 2024 MLS season, Messi scored twice to lead his team to victory.
The win secured the Supporters’ Shield for Inter Miami, awarded to the team that finishes the Major League Soccer with the most points.Miami needed to win to maintain their position at the top of the table, as a loss would have delayed their title hopes.
In a tense clash between two Eastern Conference Powerhouses, both teams exchanged blows in a match that lived up to expectations. Messi opened the scoring just before half-time, latching onto a lobbed through ball from Jordi Alba and finishing calmly in the 45th minute.
In stoppage time, Messi doubled Miami’s lead with a beautifully taken free-kick, curling the ball around the Columbus wall and into the net, leaving the goalkeeper Patrick Schulte with no chance.
Columbus responded quickly in the second half, with Diego Rossi finding the back of the net just 20 seconds after the restart. However, Miami’s Luis Suarez restored their two-goal lead moments later with a well-placed finish.
A penalty from Cucho Hernandez briught Columbus back within one, but Miami’s goalkeeper Drake Callender made a crucial late save to preserve the victory.
The victory marks Messi’s 45th career trophy and Inter Miami’s second major title, following their League Cup triumph in July of 2023.
See pictures of the award below:
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