Lionel Messi led Inter Miami to their first-ever MLS Supporters’ Shield triumph with a 3-2 victory over Columbus Crew, scoring two goals to secure the win. The Argentine star opened the scoring with a close-range effort and added a stunning free-kick just before half-time to give Miami a commanding 2-0 lead.
Columbus Crew’s Diego Rossi responded with a goal, cutting the deficit, but Miami extended their advantage when Luis Suarez, Messi’s former Barcelona teammate, found the net. Despite a late penalty from Cucho Hernandez, Miami held on for the win.
The victory solidified Inter Miami’s place at the top of the MLS standings, clinching the prestigious Supporters’ Shield, awarded to the team with the best regular-season record. This marks a historic achievement for the club, which only joined MLS in 2020. The trophy also represents Messi’s 46th career honor, adding to his already illustrious list of accomplishments.
By finishing first in the standings, Miami now enjoys home-field advantage throughout the MLS post-season playoffs. Reflecting on the accomplishment, Messi emphasized the importance of the next phase: “The first objective has been achieved, and now we focus on what’s next. The playoffs are always tough, but having home-field advantage gives us confidence.”
With two matches remaining in the season, Miami also has the opportunity to break the MLS points record, set by the New England Revolution with 73 points in 2021. If they win both remaining games, Miami will make history once again.
SOURCE: BBC
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