In the early hours of Thursday morning, Columbus Crew will be looking to extend the battle for the MLS Supporters’ Shield as they take on Inter Miami at Lower.com Field.
Currently sitting in second place in the Eastern Conference standings with 57 points, the Crew are eight points behind their upcoming opponents, but with a game in hand. A recent 2-2 draw against DC United has put them in a difficult position, as a loss in this match would see Inter Miami go 11 points clear at the top of the standings and secure the Supporters’ Shield with just three games left to play for Columbus.
Despite the challenge ahead, Wilfried Nancy’s side did manage to defeat Inter Miami 3-2 in their most recent meeting during the Leagues Cup. With their strong recent record at home, having lost only once in their last seven league matches, the Crew will be optimistic about their chances in this crucial fixture.
The key strength for the Crew this season has been their defense, which has conceded the fewest goals in the league (33). They will need another solid defensive performance to contain Inter Miami’s attacking prowess.
Inter Miami, on the other hand, currently hold a seven-point lead over second-placed LA Galaxy. With matches against eighth-placed Toronto and second-bottom New England Revolution following this game, it appears that they are on track to claim the Supporters’ Shield this season.
In team news, Lionel Messi made a successful return to action for Inter Miami after recovering from an ankle injury. The Argentine superstar scored two goals in his comeback match against Philadelphia Union and added another goal in the 1-1 draw against Charlotte over the weekend. This will be Messi’s first encounter with Columbus Crew, as he joined Miami after their previous matchups and was away on international duty for their most recent meeting.
With both teams aiming for victory in this crucial clash, the stage is set for an exciting battle at Lower.com Field.
