Inter Miami CF Clinches MLS Supporters' Shield

     Inter Miami CF captured the MLS Supporters' Shield for the first time in franchise history as they roared by the Columbus Crew 3-2 at Lower.com Field on Wednesday night. Inter Miami CF clinched the MLS Supporters' Shield with the best overall record in Major League Soccer this year. 

     It will give Inter Miami CF the home-field advantage throughout the 2024 Major League Soccer Playoffs. The Herons could host the title game for the MLS Cup at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale on December 7. 

     In the first half, Inter Miami(20-4-8) got out in front. They made it 1-0 in the 45th minute when Lionel Messi flicked a half-volley shot with his left foot from nine yards away. 

     It became 2-0 for the Herons at the end of the first half in stoppage time. Messi curled in a left-footed direct kick from 25 yards out for his 17th Major League Soccer goal this season. 

     Columbus(16-6-9) raced out to begin the second half in the 46th minute and closed it to 2-1 just 22 seconds in. Diego Rossi got to a loose ball and lifted a left-footed shot from 16 yards. 

     Inter Miami CF quickly responded and increased their lead to 3-1 during the 48th minute. Luis Suarez placed in a header from 17 yards away. 

     The Crew cut it to 3-2 in the 61st minute. Reigning Major League Soccer Most Valuable Player Cucho Hernandez put in a penalty kick with his right foot into the low left corner of the cage. Hernandez has scored 11 out of 12 occasions on penalty kicks while in MLS.