Lionel Messi scores twice as Inter Miami wins MLS Supporters’ Shield

Lionel Messi has added another trophy to his collection since joining Inter Miami from Paris Saint-Germain. The Argentine superstar scored two goals to help his team secure a 3-2 victory over Columbus Crew SC, clinching the MLS Supporters’ Shield.

In a thrilling match between two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference, Messi’s goals were key to Miami’s success. The Supporters’ Shield is awarded to the team with the most points at the end of the regular MLS season.

Miami needed a win to guarantee their top spot, while a victory for Columbus would have delayed Miami’s title celebrations. The match lived up to expectations, with both teams delivering an exciting contest.

Lionel Messi opened the scoring just before halftime in the 45th minute, receiving a perfect lobbed pass from Jordi Alba to put Miami ahead. In added time of the first half, Messi struck again, curling a stunning free kick around the Columbus defense to give his team a 2-0 lead.

Columbus responded quickly in the second half with a goal from Diego Rossi, but Luis Suarez restored Miami’s two-goal cushion just a minute later. Columbus kept fighting, with Cucho Hernandez scoring from the penalty spot to make it 3-2. However, Miami’s goalkeeper Drake Callender made a crucial save late in the game to secure the win.

This victory marks Messi’s 46th career championship and Inter Miami’s second trophy, following their Leagues Cup win in July 2023.