Inter Miami, represented by Argentine star Lionel Messi, has secured the MLS regular season win for the first time in its club history.
37 years old Lionel Messi scored two goals as Inter Miami beat Columbus Crew, the reigning champion of the North American soccer league MLS, 3-2 early Thursday morning Finnish time. At the same time, the team secured a victory in the regular season.
Messi scored his first goal in the 45th minute of the first period. Fullback Jordi Alba passed the ball to Messi, who dribbled to score. (The first paint below as an X-embedding)
Messi scored his second goal from a free kick in extra time of the first period and only five minutes after the previous one. The shot flew irresistibly into the bottom left corner past the bewildered Columbus keeper Patrick Schulten. (Second paint below as X-embedding)
Messi, who played the peak years of his career in Spain and FC Barcelona, has now scored 843 goals in his professional career.
The Supporters Shield award, awarded to the team with the most points in the regular season, was the first in Miami’s club history. With it, the team also secured home advantage for the eventual MLS final match, which will be played on December 7. The award was the second team trophy achieved in Miami’s club history.
For Lionel Messi, that award was the 46th of his career. In the summer, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi also got to celebrate the Copa America victory with Argentina.
Inter Miami has two regular season games left. Next, the team will face Toronto FC Finnish time on Saturday night.
The MLS Regular Season ends on October 20. The 18 best teams qualify for the playoffs. The champion will be announced on December 7.