Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 16, 2024 10:11 am GMT
Inter Miami is on the brink of making history, just one win away from claiming the prestigious MLS Supporters’ Shield trophy. They need to beat the Columbus Crew in their next match to secure this title.
Messi’s Impact on Inter Miami
The arrival of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami in 2023 changed everything for the team. He joined on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and immediately showcased his extraordinary talent. Under Messi’s guidance, Inter Miami clinched the Leagues Cup, sparking new hope among fans.
Despite this success, the team faced challenges in advancing to the playoffs. The Columbus Crew triumphed in the league, marking their third MLS Cup title. However, the future looks bright for Inter Miami as they add more stars to their roster.
Star Players Join the Team
With notable players like Luis Suarez, a former Barcelona teammate of Messi, and Jordi Alba & Sergio Busquets, the strength of the team has significantly increased. These new additions raise expectations that Inter Miami can seriously contest for the MLS Championship.
Understanding the MLS Playoffs
The road to the championship is clearer for fans as the Major League Soccer (MLS) playoffs have undergone a redesign. Here’s how it works:
- Nine teams from each conference will qualify for the playoffs.
- The top seven teams will secure spots in the first round.
- The eighth and ninth seeded teams will compete in one-off wild card games.
In previous years, the playoffs followed a single-elimination format. Now, the Round of 16 consists of a best-of-three series, making it unique. The first team to win two games will advance, while the conference semifinals, finals, and MLS Cup finals return to a single-elimination format.
ML Cup Champions
The last team standing at the end of the knockout bracket lifts the MLS Cup and earns the title of MLS Champions. In 2022, LAFC won both the MLS Cup and the Supporters’ Shield, a feat only accomplished eight times since the league began in 1996.
Inter Miami’s Potential for a Historic Season
Fans are buzzing with excitement as Inter Miami is viewed as the favorite to achieve the double this season, which includes both the Supporters’ Shield and the MLS Cup. If they succeed, they would become the ninth team in MLS history to accomplish this feat.
Looking Ahead
With their sights set on the upcoming match against Columbus Crew, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Inter Miami. A victory not only secures the Supporters’ Shield but also sets the stage for their playoff journey.
As they navigate through the playoffs, each match will be crucial. The challenge will be to maintain their momentum and showcase the teamwork that brought them to this point.
Conclusion
As Inter Miami stands on the cusp of a remarkable season, the excitement surrounding the team continues to grow. With star players like Messi leading the charge, fans eagerly await the next chapter in what has been a thrilling journey. This season could go down in MLS history, and supporters are hopeful that their team will lift both the Supporters’ Shield and the MLS Cup.
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