• Wednesday, 25 December 2024

Lionel Messi scores twice as Inter Miami defeat Columbus Crew

Lionel Messi scores twice as Inter Miami defeat Columbus Crew

London, 3 October 2024 (PA Media/dpa/MIA) - A two-goal performance from Lionel Messi propelled Inter Miami to a 3-2 win over Columbus Crew which also wrapped up the MLS Supporters Shield for the Argentinian's side.

Messi found the back of the net with a flurry of goals in the dying minutes of the first half en route to Inter Miami securing the award for the best regular-season record.

Columbus clawed a goal back at the start of the second half, but Luis Suarez restored Miami's advantage in the 48th minute with a header into an empty net.

Juan "Cucho" Hernandez kept the Crew in the game when he converted a penalty in the 61st minute, but a later penalty attempt was saved by goalkeeper Drake Callender.

The result ensures Miami will have home-field advantage throughout the Major League Soccer playoffs.

Photo: EPA