Lionel Messi celebrated his second title with Inter Miami on Wednesday night, adding to his impressive total of 46 titles at club and international level. Messi scored twice, while Luis Suarez netted another goal, leading Inter Miami to a 3-2 victory against the Columbus Crew to clinch the MLS Supporters’ Shield.
In a post-match interview, Messi expressed his satisfaction with achieving this milestone but emphasized that the team is now focused on future challenges. “The truth is that we are happy to achieve the first goal and now we are thinking about what is coming,” he said.
The celebration commenced in the locker room with Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas presenting the Supporters’ Shield trophy to the team. Messi raised the trophy alongside Mas while also promoting his “Mas+ by Messi” drink.
This victory marks Inter Miami’s second title since Messi joined the team in July 2023, following their Leagues Cup triumph. The club is now looking ahead to the MLS Cup final on December 7 and the possibility of competing in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States next year.
Inter Miami’s coach, Tata Martino, highlighted Messi’s impact on the team, noting that securing this Supporters’ Shield was crucial for their ambitions. “Our goal is to get to Dec. 7. With the names we have on our team, it would mean more if we earn it,” Martino said.
Messi’s goals came at pivotal moments in the match. He scored his first in the 45th minute and added a stunning free kick just before halftime. Suarez extended the lead early in the second half, but the Crew made a significant comeback effort. While Cucho Hernandez converted a penalty for the Crew, Inter Miami’s goalkeeper Drake Callender denied Hernandez’s second penalty attempt, preserving the victory.
Messi’s performance came after recently returning from a right ankle injury. Despite initial criticisms regarding his fitness, he proved instrumental in the match, reaffirming his status as a game-changer. As the club prepares for the playoffs, Messi remains focused on the team’s collective goals rather than individual records.
Inter Miami, boasting co-ownership by Jorge and Jose Mas and David Beckham, has transformed from a struggling club to champions in just a few years. With only two games left in the season and the chance to set an MLS points record, Messi intends to lead his team on a deep playoff run.
The club’s playoff position is secure, and they will aim for home-field advantage as they strive for their third title, which could also mean Messi’s 47th overall.