Messi Makes More History, Sets Up Shot At Supporters’ Shield

In the 67th minute, Lionel Messi found space and scored a curling equalizer for Inter Miami CF to level the score in a 1-1 draw at home Saturday night against Charlotte FC, as the Herons continue their chase for the Supporters’ Shield. Charlotte FC had previously taken the lead earlier in the second half when Karol Swiderski’s ricocheted shot went past Inter Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender in the 57th minute.

Messi’s goal was his 15th in 16 MLS matches this season for the Landon Donovan MLS MVP candidate, who became the sixth different player in MLS history to record at least 15 goals and 15 assists in a single season. The Argentine legend joins Portland Timbers midfielder Evander as the second player to do so this season.

For Miami, they will have their first opportunity to clinch the Supporters’ Shield when they travel to face the defending MLS Cup champion Columbus Crew on the road at Lower.com Field on Wednesday, October 2 (7:30 p.m., MLS Season Pass on Apple TV / FS1). If Miami wins that match, they would clinch the Shield for the first time in club history. However, a Columbus victory would narrow the gap to five points, while the Crew also have a game in hand.