As the sun set over the gleaming stadiums of Major League Soccer, a clash of titans unfolded on the pitch. Lionel Messi, in his debut for Inter Miami in Columbus, led his team to a thrilling 3-2 victory over the defending MLS Cup champions, the Columbus Crew. This win marked a historic moment in Messi’s illustrious career. It also secured Inter Miami the coveted 2024 Supporters’ Shield, awarded to the team with the best regular-season record.
The first half of the match was a tightly contested affair, with both teams struggling to find the back of the net. But as the clock ticked down, Messi unleashed his magic. He scored a goal in the final minute of the half to give Inter Miami a crucial lead. The Argentine icon then doubled the advantage with a stunning free-kick just before the halftime whistle. This left the Columbus faithful stunned and the Inter Miami faithful ecstatic.
Key Takeaways
- Lionel Messi’s brace led Inter Miami to a 3-2 victory over the defending MLS Cup champions, Columbus Crew.
- The win secured Inter Miami the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, the trophy awarded to the team with the best regular-season record.
- Messi’s goals in the first half gave Inter Miami a crucial lead, which they held onto despite a late comeback from Columbus.
- The victory marked Messi’s 46th major trophy, the most won by any men’s soccer player in history.
- Inter Miami’s strong season puts them in a favorable position for the upcoming playoff series, with the potential to host all upcoming matches.
Lionel Messi’s Brace Sparks Inter Miami’s Victory
In a thrilling clash between Inter Miami and Columbus Crew, Argentine superstar Lionel Messi stole the show with a brace that propelled his team to a 3-2 victory. Messi’s masterclass performance not only showcased his unparalleled skills but also solidified Inter Miami’s position as a formidable contender in the Major League Soccer (MLS) landscape.
Argentine Icon Scores Twice Before Halftime
Messi opened the scoring in the 45th minute, receiving a long pass from Jordi Alba and splitting two defenders before calmly beating the Crew goalkeeper. Just before the half-time whistle, the Inter Miami talisman struck again, this time on a sublime free-kick from around 30 yards out, squeezing the ball between the goalkeeper and the near post to give his side a 2-0 lead at the break.
Free-kick Stunner Extends Inter Miami’s Lead
Messi’s second goal, a perfectly executed free-kick, not only extended Inter Miami’s lead but also showcased the Argentine’s remarkable ability to deliver in crucial moments. This display of individual brilliance from the legendary forward captivated the spectators and left the Columbus Crew players in awe.
Messi’s brace proved to be the decisive factor in Inter Miami’s victory, as the team secured their first-ever MLS Supporters’ Shield and solidified their position for a favorable playoff run. The Argentine icon’s performance once again demonstrated his unparalleled talent and his ability to elevate his team to new heights.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Messi Goals | 2 |
| Inter Miami Goals | 3 |
| Columbus Crew Goals | 2 |
| Messi’s Career Trophies | 46 |
| Inter Miami’s Season Record | 20-4-8 |
Inter Miami Secures Supporters’ Shield and Playoff Homefield Advantage
In a decisive victory, Inter Miami has clinched the coveted MLS Supporters’ Shield. This award is given to the team with the best regular-season record. Their achievement solidifies their standing as a dominant force in the league. It also secures crucial home-field advantage throughout the MLS playoffs.
With an impressive regular-season record of 20 wins, 4 losses, and 8 draws, Inter Miami has amassed an incredible 68 points so far. They have two matches remaining. If they win, they could even set a new single-season points record. This would further cement their status as the best regular-season team in the league.
The road to this historic achievement was paved by the dynamic duo of Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez. They have combined for an astounding 35 goals and assists out of Inter Miami’s total of 72 goals in 31 matches. Messi, the Argentine icon, has been a driving force. He has contributed 17 goals and 15 assists in just 17 appearances. Despite being sidelined due to injury and international duties, his impact has been immense.
The decisive victory over the Columbus Crew sealed the deal for Inter Miami. They now hold the top seed in the Eastern Conference for the upcoming MLS Cup Playoffs. This means they will enjoy the advantage of playing all their postseason matches at their home stadium. This provides a significant boost in their quest for the coveted MLS Cup.
With their exceptional performance throughout the regular season, Inter Miami has firmly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the MLS. As they look ahead to the playoffs, their supporters can rest assured. Their team will have the upper hand with the backing of their passionate home crowd.
Luis Suarez Adds to Inter Miami’s Tally
The match between Inter Miami and Columbus Crew was electrifying, with Luis Suarez playing a pivotal role in securing a crucial win for his team. Right after Diego Rossi of Columbus Crew scored in the 46th minute, cutting Inter Miami’s lead in half, Suarez swiftly countered to regain the two-goal advantage.
Following the restart, a foul by a Columbus defender left Patrick Schulte exposed, allowing Suarez to head the ball into an open net. This goal extended Inter Miami’s lead to 3-1. Suarez’s quick response showcased his clinical finishing and ability to seize opportunities, reinforcing his importance in Inter Miami’s successful 2024 season.
“Luis Suarez’s quick reaction after the Crew’s goal was a testament to his sharpness and determination to keep Inter Miami in control of the match,” said head coach Tata Martino. “His goal-scoring prowess has been a driving force behind our team’s success this season.”
With this victory, Inter Miami’s record now stands at 20 wins, 4 losses, and 8 draws, earning them 68 points this season. The team’s depth, versatility, and improved performance, even without Lionel Messi, have been key in their pursuit of the Supporters’ Shield and securing a top seed in the MLS Cup playoffs.
inter miami vs columbus
The match between Inter Miami and the Columbus Crew was a closely contested affair. The home team staged a late comeback. Cucho Hernández converted a penalty kick in the 61st minute, pulling the Crew within a goal of Inter Miami‘s lead.
However, the momentum shift was short-lived. Rudy Camacho was sent off for his second yellow card in the 63rd minute. This forced the Crew to play the remainder of the match with 10 men. This proved to be a decisive moment, as Inter Miami managed to hold on to their lead and secure the victory.
Cucho Hernandez’s Penalty Kick Pulls Crew Closer
In the 61st minute, Cucho Hernández stepped up and converted a penalty kick. This reduced Inter Miami‘s lead to 3-2. The goal gave the Crew a glimmer of hope, as they looked to mount a comeback against the high-flying Inter Miami side.
Rudy Camacho Sent Off, Crew Plays Shorthanded
The momentum shift was short-lived, however. Rudy Camacho received his second yellow card in the 63rd minute. This left the Crew to play the remainder of the match with 10 men. This was a significant blow to the Crew’s chances, as they struggled to maintain their defensive organization and create clear-cut opportunities against the Inter Miami attack.
Despite the Crew’s valiant effort, Inter Miami managed to hold on to their lead. They secured a crucial victory, further cementing their position at the top of the Eastern Conference standings.
Drake Callender’s Heroic Penalty Save Seals Victory
As the match neared its end, DRV PNK Stadium was electric with tension. Despite Inter Miami leading by a hair, the Columbus Crew refused to give up. They earned a second penalty after a handball inside the box, creating a new wave of tension.
The spotlight fell on Drake Callender, Inter Miami’s goalkeeper, as he readied for the penalty. Unfazed, Callender showcased his agility and quick reflexes, leaping to his left for a stunning penalty save. This daring move was the turning point, securing a victory for Inter Miami against the Columbus Crew.
“Drake Callender’s penalty save was a game-changing moment. His composure and instincts in that crucial moment were truly impressive.”
The penalty save marked the climax of a fiercely contested match. Both teams had shown flashes of brilliance. Inter Miami had initially taken the lead, but the Columbus Crew had managed to level the score. Callender’s save ensured Inter Miami would take home the win, boosting their league standing.
This victory not only strengthened Inter Miami‘s playoff chances but also brought them closer to the Supporters’ Shield. The team’s determination and Drake Callender‘s heroics underscored their capacity to secure results under immense pressure.
Conclusion
The win over the Columbus Crew marks Inter Miami‘s second trophy since Lionel Messi joined in 2023. They’ve added the Supporters’ Shield to the Leagues Cup they won earlier this year. Messi’s two goals extended his record for the most major trophies won by any men’s soccer player. The team now has home-field advantage throughout the MLS playoffs, aiming for the MLS Cup.
Under Messi’s leadership, Inter Miami has seen a remarkable transformation. They’ve moved from not qualifying for the playoffs last year to becoming Supporters’ Shield champions. The team’s depth and resilience were evident, securing the title even with key players like Messi missing due to injury.
With the Supporters’ Shield in hand and a potent offense led by Messi and Luis Suarez, Inter Miami aims for the MLS Cup. This will be the culmination of a historic season. The team’s fans, who have been eagerly awaiting this moment, can now celebrate the club’s success. They look forward to further glory in the playoffs.
FAQ
What was the final score of the Inter Miami vs. Columbus Crew match?
Inter Miami emerged victorious over the Columbus Crew with a score of 3-2.
Who scored the goals for Inter Miami?
Lionel Messi netted two crucial goals for Inter Miami. Luis Suarez also contributed with a goal.
How did Lionel Messi’s performance impact the match?
Messi’s two goals, including a stunning free-kick, were key in securing the win for Inter Miami.
What did this victory mean for Inter Miami?
This win secured the 2024 Supporters’ Shield for Inter Miami. It’s awarded to the MLS team with the best regular-season record. This also grants them home-field advantage in the MLS playoffs.
How did the Columbus Crew respond to Inter Miami’s lead?
The Crew scored two goals in the second half. Diego Rossi and Cucho Hernández scored, but it wasn’t enough to catch up with Inter Miami’s lead.
What happened to the Columbus Crew in the second half?
Crew defender Rudy Camacho was sent off for his second yellow card. This left Columbus to play the rest of the match with 10 men.
How did the match end?
Inter Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender made a crucial penalty save late in the game. This save helped secure the win for his team.