Inter Miami wins first Supporters’ Shield; Messi wins major title number 46

On October 3, Inter Miami claimed their second significant title and their first MLS Supporters Shield by defeating Columbus Crew 3-2, with Lionel Messi scoring twice to lead the team.

With two games remaining in the regular season, Inter Miami still has a chance to surpass the league's points record of 73, which was established by the New England Revolution in 2021. Lionel Messi is getting closer to his best form, having missed 18 out of Miami’s 31 regular season games due to injuries and international commitments. As a result, Inter Miami is entering the playoffs on October 25 as the strong favorite.

By securing the Supporters Shield, the club has ensured its spot in next summer’s FIFA Club World Cup.

The Argentine legend has now secured 46 significant titles throughout his remarkable career and will be participating in the MLS playoffs for the first time, having missed the opportunity last season.

"I'm really pleased for this group of players," Messi stated. "We discussed our goals at the start of the season and believed we had the right team to aim for this kind of recognition. We possess the talent needed to achieve it. I'm excited to have reached this initial milestone. Now, we need to concentrate on what lies ahead."

In only their fourth season, Inter Miami has proven that David Beckham's costly investment, as a part-owner and ex-MLS superstar, was worth it. With the largest payroll in MLS, around $41.68 million, and a lineup filled with big names like Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets, the team has demonstrated that age doesn't matter. Beckham can take pride in reuniting his former FC Barcelona teammates on American soil, validating his choices.

In a distinctive feature of Major League Soccer, even though securing the Supporters Shield is akin to being crowned league champion, the trophy that the club truly aims for is the MLS Cup.

Argentinian coach Tata Martino shared his thoughts with The Athletic, emphasizing that winning the Supporters Shield doesn’t compare to clinching the MLS Cup. “When you win the MLS Cup, you get to put a star above the badge,” Martino stated. “If the day comes when I receive a star for winning the Supporters Shield, then it might be worth something.” Martino’s perspective carries weight since he won the MLS Cup with Atlanta United back in 2018.

For Lionel Messi, claiming the MLS Cup would add another achievement to his impressive collection of trophies. As next season is likely to be his final one, it already appears certain that he will secure the FIFA Club World Cup, further solidifying his status as the greatest player of all time and a champion with countless titles.

Get in touch with the author of this article, Nick Webster, at the following email address: moc.l1728010964labto1728010964ofdlr1728010964owedi1728010964sni@o1728010964fni1728010964.