Lionel Messi’s Stunning Free-Kick Secures Inter Miami’s Supporters’ Shield Triumph 3-2
Another masterpiece from Lionel Messi saw Inter Miami defeat Columbus Crew 3-2. Messi scored twice, including a spectacular free kick.
Miami’s victory sealed the Supporters’ Shield, which goes to the Major League Soccer (MLS) team with the best regular-season record.
The Supporters’ Shield, which is given to the team with the greatest regular-season record, was won by Inter Miami 3-2 over the defending MLS champion Columbus Crew, thanks in large part to another brilliant performance by Lionel Messi. Messi had been largely silent until right before halftime, but his two lightning-fast magical moments flipped the game in Miami’s favor.
In the 45th minute, Messi scored his first goal of the game when he deftly controlled a long ball inside the penalty area with his chest. Just before halftime, Messi gave Miami the lead when he poked the ball past Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte after it had a fortunate bounce off Crew defender Malte Amundsen.
A few minutes later, Messi was back to his best, demonstrating his command of a set piece. Following Columbus’ giveaway of a free kick right outside the area, the Argentine master struck with exquisite skill. Messi saw an ill-built wall and curled the ball into the upper corner with laser-like accuracy, stopping Schulte in his tracks.
The free kick gave Miami a 2-0 lead and solid control heading into the second half, demonstrating Messi’s ability once again.
After the restart, Diego Rossi’s well-placed shot into the far corner gave the Columbus Crew a response and allowed them to draw one back. But Luis Suarez was able to head into an open net due to a defensive mix-up between Schulte and Rudy Camacho, giving Miami a 3-1 lead.
Columbus battled well despite their disadvantage, earning a penalty that Cucho Hernandez converted to bring the score 3-2. However, Camacho’s dismissal for a second yellow card following a careless challenge halted their momentum. Columbus had a late penalty granted to them, but Miami goalie Drake Callender stopped Hernandez’s meek attempt to preserve a thrilling victory for the home team.
Messi’s two goals and his incredible free kick proved to be the difference in the end, as Inter Miami made a big stride toward winning the MLS Cup.
With this stunning victory, Lionel Messi won his 46th career trophy (most by any player in history).
Beckham Shares Special Message
The Argentine star’s close buddy David Beckham of Miami had a special message for Messi and company following the victory. He shared a joyful picture of himself on Instagram along with the caption, “So proud to see our players lift the Supporters Shield after a great win in Columbus.” Another incredible milestone in this football team’s history, and I’m thrilled to present the trophy to the league’s greatest supporters. We’re moving on to the next one now.
Messi stole the show once more, first with a short chip to break the deadlock and then with another goal, this time from a spectacular 24-yard free kick, giving him 17 goals in 17 Major League Soccer games. Messi stated following the game, “I’m thrilled. pleased for this bunch.
“From the outset, it was evident what the goal was: to take the lead, desire possession, and challenge opponents with our style of play. The team’s competitiveness, attitude, and gameplay all increased as important players joined.
“Beating the record for points is secondary, in my opinion. I don’t think it counts as much, even though we have a great chance to make history in that area as well,” he continued.
