Sun Sep 29 06:58:10 UTC 2024: ## Messi Leads Inter Miami to Draw, Keeping Supporters’ Shield Hopes Alive

**FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. –** Lionel Messi, back from injury, led Inter Miami to a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Charlotte FC on Saturday night, maintaining their lead in the MLS Supporters’ Shield race. Messi, despite being frustrated by several fouls, scored the equalizer in the 67th minute, sending a powerful left-footed shot past the Charlotte goalkeeper.

The goal, celebrated with an “Iron Man” gesture towards his children in the stands, came after a dominant performance from Messi who attempted 10 of Inter Miami’s 20 shots on the night.

Despite the draw, Messi expressed his disappointment, receiving a yellow card late in the match after arguing with the referees about a foul committed against him. He was visibly frustrated by a missed penalty opportunity after VAR overturned a call that initially awarded a spot kick to Inter Miami.

Inter Miami coach Tata Martino acknowledged the importance of securing the Supporters’ Shield, but emphasized the ultimate goal: winning the MLS Cup. “The truth is that we would all feel very empty if we do not fight for the championship,” he said.

Messi, now four games back from a Copa America ankle injury, continues to work on his form ahead of the MLS playoffs. Martino expressed confidence in Messi’s ability to regain full fitness with a busy schedule of club and national team matches in the coming month. “Leo is going to get better and better as he adds 90 minutes,” Martino said.

Inter Miami needs seven points from its final three matches to secure the Supporters’ Shield. They face a crucial match against the reigning MLS champions, Columbus Crew, on Wednesday. A win would be their second title of the Messi era after winning the Leagues Cup last year and would guarantee home-field advantage throughout the MLS playoffs.

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