Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, continued their impressive run towards securing the No. 1 seed for the MLS Cup playoffs with a 1-1 tie against Charlotte FC on Saturday night. Messi’s goal in the 67th minute marked his 15th goal in 16 league matches this season, contributing significantly to Inter Miami’s success.
The tie against Charlotte, coupled with Columbus’ 2-2 draw with D.C. United, widened Inter Miami’s lead for the top seed in the Eastern Conference to eight points. Additionally, the team is now ahead of the LA Galaxy by seven points for the No. 1 overall seed in the MLS playoffs.
With three matches remaining in the regular season, Inter Miami is in a strong position to potentially break the MLS single-season points record of 73 set by New England in 2021. Should Inter Miami win all their remaining matches, they will finish with 74 points.
Despite the draw, Inter Miami’s unbeaten streak extended to eight matches in Major League Soccer. The team has been on an impressive run, going 5-0-3 in their last eight league matches and boasting a 9-1-3 record in MLS play since June 1.
Messi’s goal showcased his exceptional talent, as he weaved through defenders near the penalty box to find the back of the net and equalize the match after Karol Swiderski had scored for Charlotte. Inter Miami had opportunities to secure a win in the final moments, including a chance for Messi and a missed opportunity by Luis Suarez in stoppage time.
Inter Miami’s upcoming match against Columbus presents an opportunity to secure the No. 1 seed in the East before closing out the regular season with games against Toronto and New England. The team is positioned to open the playoffs at home the following weekend, further solidifying their quest for MLS Cup success.