Inter Miami Secure MLS 2024 Supporters’ Shield with Exciting 3-2 Victory Against Columbus Crew

By /
Inter Miami clinched the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield after a dramatic 3-2 victory over reigning champions Columbus Crew. With the possibility of breaking the regular-season points record, Miami is gearing up for a remarkable finish as they turn their focus to the MLS Cup.
MLS Supporters' Shield

Inter Miami and Lionel Messi have finally secured their first piece of silverware of the 2024 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, claiming the MLS Supporters’ Shield following a heart-stopping 3-2 win against reigning champions Columbus Crew. This victory not only marks a milestone for the relatively young franchise but also places them on the brink of making history by potentially breaking the record for the most points in an MLS regular season.

The Herons now sit comfortably on 68 points, with two games left to play in the regular season. This triumph means they have already clinched the honor of being the best team in the regular campaign, a prestigious achievement reflecting their consistency, talent, and resilience throughout a competitive season. What makes this moment even more special is that Inter Miami has the opportunity to break the MLS regular-season points record, set by the New England Revolution in 2021 with 73 points. If they manage to win their final two matches, Miami will end with 74 points, setting a new benchmark for excellence in the league.

A Team Effort Despite Messi’s Limited Availability

Lionel Messi has, without a doubt, been the face of the franchise since his much-celebrated arrival in South Florida. However, injuries have kept the legendary Argentine on the physio’s table for considerable portions of the season. Despite his limited availability, Messi has continued to make a difference whenever he has been on the pitch. The recent win against Columbus Crew was no exception.

It was not just Messi who shone on that memorable night. Inter Miami’s squad depth and contributions from other stars like Luis Suárez have been pivotal to their success this season. The Uruguayan striker, who has formed a potent partnership with Messi since his own arrival, was instrumental once again during Miami’s victory over Columbus.

Messi and Suárez: A Formidable Partnership

The chemistry between Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez has been one of the most compelling stories of the 2024 MLS season. With two games still left in the regular season, the South American duo has already combined for an astounding 35 goals and 21 assists. Against Columbus Crew, both Messi and Suárez got on the scoresheet, showcasing the magic that fans have come to expect from two of the greatest players of their generation.

The victory saw Messi score a brace, including a stunning free-kick that has quickly become a hallmark of his play in Miami. The moment left the crowd in awe, as the Argentine genius curled the ball past the Columbus goalkeeper, ensuring the Herons took all three points from the encounter. Luis Suárez also made a key contribution, capitalizing on a costly mistake by the Columbus goalkeeper to extend Miami’s lead.

MLS 2024 Supporters' Shield

Columbus Crew Fight Until the End

While Miami ultimately triumphed, Columbus Crew did not make it easy for them. The reigning champions, who have had a strong season of their own, put up a spirited fight even after going down a man. Defender Rudy Camacho was sent off at the hour mark, reducing Columbus to ten men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Columbus continued to press, eventually earning a penalty that could have changed the outcome of the game.

Drake Callender, Inter Miami’s reliable shot-stopper, rose to the occasion, saving Cucho Hernández’s penalty and maintaining Miami’s slim advantage. The save effectively sealed the victory for Miami and allowed them to claim the Supporters’ Shield in front of a jubilant home crowd.

Eyes Set on the MLS Cup

With the Supporters’ Shield now in their trophy cabinet, Inter Miami has their sights set on the bigger prize: the MLS Cup. The Supporters’ Shield is an impressive achievement that highlights a team’s performance over the entire season, but for head coach Tata Martino and his men, the MLS Cup is the ultimate goal. The playoffs are a different beast, where anything can happen, but Miami’s current form and momentum make them a force to be reckoned with.

Tata Martino, a seasoned manager with experience in guiding teams to silverware, will undoubtedly use the Supporters’ Shield win to fuel the ambition of his players. Messi, Suárez, and the rest of the squad are fully aware that they have a real chance of adding another title to their collection, and they will be looking to carry their regular-season form into the postseason.

History in the Making

Inter Miami’s journey to the top of MLS this season has been nothing short of remarkable. From the arrival of Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez to the consistent performances from a well-rounded squad, the Herons have shown they are more than just star power—they are a team built on unity, hard work, and determination.

The next two games will be critical for Miami as they aim to make history by breaking the regular-season points record. However, regardless of whether they achieve this feat, the 2024 season will be remembered as a defining chapter in the club’s history—one where they proved they could compete with the best and come out on top.

For now, the Supporters’ Shield is in their hands, and with the MLS Cup within reach, Inter Miami is on a path that could define them as one of the greatest teams in MLS history.

Read Next:

error: Content is protected !!
Scroll to Top