With a stunning free-kick, Lionel Messi leaves the goalie stunned
Lionel Messi proved his magic yet again, scoring twice as Inter Miami edged off defending MLS winners Columbus Crew 3-2 to secure the Supporters' Shield, granted to the team with the greatest regular-season record.
Messi had been largely silent until right before halftime, but his two lightning-fast magical moments flipped the game in Miami's favor. In the 45th minute, Messi scored his first goal of the game when he deftly controlled a long ball inside the penalty area with his chest.
Just before halftime, Messi gave Miami the lead when he poked the ball past Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte after it had a fortunate bounce off Crew defender Malte Amundsen.
Messi's two goals and his incredible free kick proved to be the difference in the end, as Inter Miami made a big stride toward winning the MLS Cup.
