Lionel Messi and goalkeeper Drake Callender proved to be the standout figures as Inter Miami clinched the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield in a dramatic showdown against the Columbus Crew on Wednesday night. This pivotal match ended in a thrilling 3-2 victory, showcasing the duo’s immense contributions to the team’s success throughout the season.
Messi, renowned for his extraordinary skills, delivered yet another stunning performance, registering a superb brace—his 31st and 32nd goal contributions of the season. The Argentine superstar opened the scoring in the 45th minute, allowing Miami to take a crucial lead into halftime. Just moments later, in a display of his set-piece excellence, Messi curled in a sensational free kick, doubling the advantage to 2-0 and setting the stage for what was to become an intense second half.
The energy shifted moments after the break when Columbus Crew winger Diego Rossi netted a goal barely 20 seconds into the second half, giving the Crew a glimmer of hope. However, the Herons’ response was immediate and decisive. Less than a minute later, Luis Suarez found the back of the net, capitalizing on a costly mistake from Crew goalkeeper Patrick Schulte. This swift retaliation restored Miami’s two-goal cushion, making it 3-1 and seemingly comfortable for the Herons.
As the match unfolded, it became clear that the Crew were not about to back down easily. In the 61st minute, they were awarded a penalty after a foul was committed, which resulted in Cucho Hernandez converting from the spot and narrowing the gap to 3-2. The stakes were raised further when Columbus defender Rudy Camacho received a red card just two minutes later, reducing the Crew to ten men and giving Miami an apparent numerical advantage.
However, the drama escalated in the 82nd minute when Miami defender Ian Fray was penalized for a handball in the box, granting Hernandez another opportunity to equalize from the penalty spot. At this crucial moment, it was Callender who became the hero for Miami; the U.S. international executed a pivotal save, denying the Colombian striker and ensuring Miami maintained their narrow lead as the final minutes ticked away.
The culmination of events in this match not only secured Miami the 2024 regular season title but also marked a memorable chapter in the campaign. Columbus fans left feeling frustrated over several controversial decisions, including a VAR review that saw Sergio Busquets escape punishment for a potentially dangerous tackle. The discontent among Crew supporters was palpable, with many feeling that key calls by the officiating crew adversely affected their side’s chances.
On another note, Miami must navigate their upcoming match against Toronto FC without two significant players—Federico Redondo and Marcelo Weigandt—who received yellow card accumulation suspensions earlier in the match. Nevertheless, the Herons are unlikely to dwell on these absences, basking instead in the joy of their championship victory.
This triumph marks career trophy no. 46 for the legendary Messi and serves as a testament to Inter Miami’s remarkable progression since his arrival in 2023. With a season tally of 17 goals and 15 assists, Messi has undeniably been the catalyst for Miami’s outstanding performance, leading them to the league’s best record and earning the admiration of fans and pundits alike. His partnership with Callender has cemented their status as the heroes of South Beach, as Inter Miami continues to thrive on and off the pitch.
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