Lionel Messi's Inter Miami drew 1-1 against Toronto FC in their last Major League Soccer clash on September 27 at BMO Field, Canada.
Tadeo Allende opened the scoring for Inter Miami from an assist by Jordi Alba one minute into the first half stoppage time. Toronto found their equalizer with Dorde Mihailovic's goal after being set up by Richie Laryea on the one-hour mark.
With this draw, the Herons could add one point to the MLS table instead of three, which rank them fourth in the Eastern Conference of the league, with 56 points in 30 games.
Following their defeat in the Leagues Cup final last month, the Herons are focused on the MLS, followed by the MLS Cup playoffs to claim some silverware this season.
Now, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has also pointed out that his squad remains in contention for the 2025 Supporters' Shield, mentioning that they 'have the responsibility to fight for it.'
What did Inter Miami boss say about Leo Messi-led Inter Miami's chances in Supporters' Shield?
The Supporters' Shield is awarded to the team with the most points across both the Eastern and Western conferences through the MLS regular season.
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During his post-match press conference, Mascherano addressed the draw against Toronto, mentioning that his squad are 'focused on finishing as high as possible,' and said,
"We're focused on finishing as high as possible. Maybe we missed a chance today to keep climbing, but in the end it'll be important to be up there because once the playoffs start, playing at home matters. If we can fight for the Supporters' Shield, great, we'll try," as per World Soccer Talk.
"I think we have the responsibility to fight for it, but in the end we'll see if in the next four games we have the chance to stay in the race."
Messi & Co. will now face Chicago Fire FC in their next MLS match on September 30 at Chase Stadium.
Lionel Messi & Inter Miami news and related links
- Ex-MLS star does not recommend 'disaster' Inter Miami, says Leo Messi's father 'basically runs' club
- Lionel Messi smashes six-year MLS record to over former MVP winner
- Mascherano reveals true feelings on Messi's Inter Miami contract renewal