A Historic Victory
Lionel Messi announced that Inter Miami CF has successfully completed its first objective of the 2024 MLS season by clinching the Supporters’ Shield. They achieved this milestone with a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Columbus Crew on Wednesday night at Lower.com Field in Ohio.
Messi’s Joyful Reflection
“I am happy,” Messi stated in a postgame interview with Apple TV. “Happy that we did it. At the beginning of the year, we knew this was a group capable of fighting for this. We took charge from the beginning; in fact, we had the players to achieve this. I am thrilled to secure the first objective, and now we’re focused on the next.”
Key Contributions
During the match, Messi scored two goals, while Luis Suárez contributed another. Consequently, the team held strong after the Crew’s Rudy Camacho received a red card in the 63rd minute. Additionally, Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender made a crucial save, blocking a penalty kick from Cucho Hernández in the 84th minute. This pivotal moment sealed the three points for his team.
Record-Breaking Performance
The Herons secured the trophy with an impressive 68 points in 32 games, marking their first piece of MLS silverware since they debuted as an expansion franchise in 2020. Previously, Inter Miami had claimed the inaugural 2023 Leagues Cup title but had not secured any MLS trophies until now. Moreover, the team has experienced a meteoric rise in 2024, thanks to Messi and Suárez, who have significantly contributed to the team’s success. Together, these talented forwards accounted for 35 of the team’s 72 goals in 31 matches.
A Clear Vision
“I think since the arrival of [coach] Gerardo Martino, along with us [Jordi Alba, Suárez, and Sergio Busquets], the idea has been clear: to be protagonists and chase the ball, focusing on possession. Furthermore, important players arrived to elevate the team in both gameplay and personality. We strive to compete in every game,” Messi explained.
Messi’s Leadership
Despite his absences due to injury and international duty, the Argentine captain leads Inter Miami in both assists and goals, having played in only 16 games. His performance has been remarkable, thereby reinforcing his status as one of the best football players of all time.
A Milestone for Messi
The 2024 Supporters’ Shield is not only Messi’s second trophy with the club but also the 46th of his illustrious career. His extensive list of achievements includes 10 LaLiga titles, four Champions League victories, two Copa América titles, and the 2022 FIFA World Cup, among others.
Coach Martino’s Praise
“I’ve been here one year, and I’m happy that we’ve been able to win two titles with him,” Martino remarked. This sentiment reflects the team’s camaraderie and shared goals.
The Importance of the Supporters’ Shield
In addition, the Supporters’ Shield is one of two major trophies in MLS, alongside the MLS Cup. It rewards the team with the best overall record in the regular season, thereby reflecting consistency over a 34-game campaign. There are 16 different MLS teams that have won the Supporters’ Shield with the LA Galaxy and D.C. United leading the way with four each.
Looking Ahead
By winning the Shield, Inter Miami has secured home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, enhancing their prospects. Moreover, they remain on track to break the league record for the most points in a regular season. The New England Revolution currently holds this record, with 73 points accumulated during the 2021 season; however, Miami could surpass this by winning their final two games.
Conclusion
As Messi and the team continue their pursuit of excellence, fans eagerly anticipate more thrilling moments on the football field. Therefore, the excitement surrounding Inter Miami is palpable as they strive for even greater achievements.