Inter Miami vs Columbus: Messi’s Brilliance Secures MLS Title

Inter Miami vs Columbus

Lionel Messi was instrumental in Inter Miami vs Columbus Crew, securing the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield in a thrilling match on Wednesday night. The Argentine superstar netted two goals, marking his 31st and 32nd goal contributions of the season.

Messi opened the scoring in the 45th minute and followed it up with a stunning free kick just before half-time, giving Miami a 2-0 advantage. However, the Crew quickly responded just 20 seconds into the second half with a goal from winger Diego Rossi.

Miami didn’t let the pressure build, as Luis Suarez found the back of the net less than a minute later, capitalizing on an error from Crew goalkeeper Patrick Schulte to restore Miami’s two-goal lead. The Herons looked set to secure the win, but the Crew were determined to fight back.

In the 61st minute, Columbus was awarded a penalty after a foul by Miami, and Cucho Hernandez scored to cut the deficit to 3-2. Just two minutes later, the Crew’s Rudy Camacho received a red card for a second yellow, giving Miami a numerical advantage.

However, the tension ramped up again when Ian Fray committed a handball in the box, granting Hernandez another penalty chance in the 82nd minute. But U.S. international Drake Callender made a crucial save, denying the Crew a chance to equalize.

This victory solidified Inter Miami’s place as the 2024 regular season champions, marking a chaotic but memorable match. Columbus fans expressed frustration over several contentious decisions, including a VAR-reviewed challenge by Sergio Busquets that was deemed a non-foul.

Despite losing Federico Redondo and Marcelo Weigandt to yellow card suspensions for Saturday’s match against Toronto FC, the Herons celebrated their triumph. This win not only marked Messi’s 46th career trophy but also represented Inter Miami’s second title since his arrival in 2023. With 17 goals and 15 assists this season, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has played a pivotal role in leading the team to the league’s best record.

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