"Another historic achievement" - Lionel Messi sets sights on next target after helping Inter Miami lift MLS Supporters' Shield
Lionel Messi has revealed his intent for the immediate future after leading Inter Miami to glory in the MLS regular season for the first time. The Herons won the MLS Supporters' Shield, setting a new record for points won in the process.
Messi has been plagued by injuries in what is his first full season with the Herons, with a number of muscle problems limiting him to just 19 league appearances. The 37-year-old has done more than enough in those games, however, with 20 goals and 10 assists for his side.
Lionel Messi ended the regular season with a bang, scoring his first hattrick in pink to lead his club to a 6-2 win over New England Revolution (October 19). The Argentine great helped his side come from behind to win in front of their fans on the night where they celebrated their Supporters' Shield triumph.
After the game, Messi took to Instagram to express his gratitude to the fans for their support, acknowledging what the club had achieved this year. He also gave the fans something to look forward to as they prepare for the playoffs.
"Another great night and another historic achievement for the club. Thanks to the people who supported us all season long, to @intermiamicf. and all of #LaFamilia See you in the Playoffs!"
Inter Miami, who failed to make the playoffs in 2023, ended the regular season with 74 points, setting a new MLS record. They also lost just four matches, the joint-least amount of losses by any side in MLS regular season history.
The Herons won the Supporters' Shield with games to spare, and also booked their place in the playoffs in August. The reward for their great season is in a first-ever home playoff tie against one of Montreal CF or Atlanta United on Friday October 25.
Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez inspire Inter Miami to win over New England Revolution
Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez were in inspired form for Inter Miami as they claimed a crushing 6-2 win over New England Revolution to end the regular season in style. The Herons came back from two goals down to pick up all three points at home.
Luca Langoni and Dylan Borrero scored in the second and 34th minutes to put New England Revolution ahead against the Herons. Suarez responded with two goals in three minutes, scoring in the 40th and 43rd minutes to level the tie and take his tally for the season to 20 goals.
Inter Miami took the lead for the first time after 58 minutes, with Jordi Alba setting up Benjamin Cremaschi to make it 3-2. Messi then took over, scoring in the 78th, 81st, and 89th minutes to seal a comfortable win for his side.
Luis Suarez finished the game with two goals and two assists, while Lionel Messi netted a hattrick for his side. The pair became the first teammates in MLS history to reach 20 league goals in the same season.