Lionel Messi secured the second trophy of his Inter Miami journey and now has his sights set on making history.
The Argentine World Cup-winning captain scored an stunning double to inspire a 3-2 win over reigning MLS Cup champions Columbus Crew on Wednesday.
Messi scored twice to seal the Supporters’ Shield
Victory ensured owner David Beckham‘s franchise lifted the Supporters’ Shield after winning last year’s Leagues Cup.
It is given to the team with the best regular season season record and Miami needed a win to wrap up the crown with two games remaining.
Messi opened the scoring after 40 minutes with a composed finish and curled in a superb free-kick before halftime, but Columbus struck through Diego Rossi just 25 seconds later.
Luis Suarez bagged the third before Cucho Hernandez was given two chances to score from the penalty spot – missing the second as Miami clung on for the three points.
It was the 46th trophy of Messi’s career and his team now have New England Revolution’s record 73-point haul from 2021 in their sights.
Miami can set up a shot at history by beating Toronto FC on Saturday.
Fittingly, they would then play New England knowing victory would break the record, before they take aim at the MLS Cup having booked their place in the playoffs back in August.
Toronto are battling to make the postseason and the Revolution will want to hang on to their crown, so both could be tough games.
Miami head coach Tata Martino may take the chance to rest some of his stars.
Messi and Suarez have formed a lethal duo
Inter Miami celebrate with the Supporters’ Shield
Messi, Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba are all likely to see their minutes limited.
Miami won’t play their first MLS Cup playoff game until October 26 after receiving a bye.
“The first objective has been achieved and now we have to think about what’s next,” 37-year-old Messi said.
“The first round is three games but then it’s one game and anything can happen.
“But we have the great advantage of playing all the games at home, which is what we were looking for. We are very strong at home.”
Messi has 17 goals and 15 assists in 17 league games this season and Miami will be favorites to go all the way in the MLS Cup.
And co-owner Beckham was quick to praise the team, and their supporters as Messi’s first full season in the US goes from strength to strength.
His first season begun with him joining halfway through the campaign and he was unable to take the team into the playoffs having found them bottom when he arrived.
But with the Leagues Cup victory behind them, they have been in spectacular form in 2024.
Beckham said on Instagram: “So proud to see our players lift the Supporters Shield after a great win in Columbus.
“Another amazing achievement in the history of this football club and so happy to bring this trophy to the best fans in the League.
“Now we go again and onto the next one.”
