Lionel Messi has added the MLS Supporters Shield to his legendary trophy cabinet, as the Argentina icon and World Cup winner scored twice in Inter Miami's 3-2 win over Columbus Crew, the reigning MLS Cup champions.
This triumph marks Messi's 46th major trophy won for club or country, further solidifying his position as the men's football player with the most titles in history.
Messi's two goals towards the end of the first half and the penalty saved by goalkeeper Drake Callender in the 84th minute secured the win for Miami. Luis Suarez also contributed to Inter Miami's success by finding the net.
The Supporters Shield is a recognition for the best regular-season performance.
It is also the second trophy Messi has claimed with Inter Miami, following the Leagues Cup victory the Herons achieved shortly after Messi joined the club in 2023.
With this win, Inter Miami have secured home-field advantage for the playoffs, which are set to commence in the final weekend of October with a best-of-three first-round series.
Should the team emerge victorious from that series, they would have the privilege of hosting every match throughout the remainder of the season, including an Eastern Conference semifinal (scheduled for November 23 or 24), the East final (November 30 or December 1), and the MLS Cup final on December 7.
(With AP inputs)
