MLS
How Inter Miami’s Supporters’ Shield title could slip out of their hands
The current MLS Cup champions, Columbus Crew, are eight points behind Inter Miami with a game in hand and will face Messi’s men in Ohio.
Messi and Inter Miami are aiming to win the Supporters’ Shield this season in MLS. However, two recent draws against Atlanta United and New York City FC have opened the door for reigning champions Columbus Crew to challenge them.
Currently, Wilfried Nancy’s Columbus Crew sits third in the Eastern Conference with 56 points, eight behind Inter Miami. The Crew, however, have a game in hand, which could close the gap to just five points.
After the latest draw, Inter Miami boss Tata Martino exploded in anger after being unhappy with the match officials, saying that “the team didn’t lack anything, but the match lacked a good referee.” While Martino remained on the sidelines, a red card was shown to Tata Martino Jr - the head coach’s son - who is a part of the Inter Miami backroom staff. He will miss the upcoming game against Charlotte.
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While Messi’s team still holds the top spot, with four games remaining, the Crew will host Inter Miami in two weeks in what is set to be a hugely entertaining clash of titans. A win in that game could tighten the race, bringing the Crew within two points of the Supporters’ Shield.
With four games left, Miami are also at risk of falling short of the MLS single-season points record. The ‘Garzas’ currently have 64 points and would need to win three of their final four games to tie the 73-point record set by the New England Revolution in 2021.
Despite winning the Supporters’ Shield that year, the Revolution were eliminated in the Eastern Conference semifinals by New York City FC, who went on to become the tournament champions.
Miami’s remaining fixtures include playoff contenders Charlotte FC, reigning MLS champions Columbus Crew, and matches against Toronto FC and New England Revolution, the worst team in the Conference.