Lionel Messi and Inter Miami could capture their second title together as soon as Wednesday.

The Leagues Cup champions for 2023 are on the verge of earning the MLS Supporters’ Shield, awarded to the team with the best record in the 2024 regular season.

Here’s how Inter Miami can secure the Shield: They need to win their match at home against Charlotte FC on Saturday and then win again on the road against the current MLS champions, Columbus Crew, next Wednesday. If they win both matches, they would reach 70 points, making it impossible for other teams to catch up.

Alternatively, Inter Miami could clinch it this way: They would need to acquire eight points from their last four matches. Remember, a win gives three points, a draw gives one, and a loss earns none.

This explains why the focus is sharply on the upcoming matches for coach Tata Martino and his team.

“This [Saturday] is a crucial match for us. It’s another home game, and we need to secure a win to maintain our lead over Columbus and Cincinnati,” Martino stated.

Messi, star player for Inter Miami, will be back in action against Charlotte, marking his fourth appearance since recovering from an ankle injury sustained during the Copa America.

How to Stream the Inter Miami vs. Charlotte FC Match Live

The Inter Miami match against Charlotte FC kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET (8:30 p.m. in Argentina) and can be watched on MLS Season Pass through Apple TV.

Current Standings in the MLS Supporters’ Shield Race Ahead of Saturday

Currently, Inter Miami has accumulated 64 points; meanwhile, Cincinnati holds a tiebreaker over Columbus, as both teams are tied at 56 points.

Importantly, Columbus has five games left to play, Inter Miami has four remaining, and L.A. Galaxy is second in the standings with 58 points and three games remaining.

If Columbus wins against Inter Miami on Wednesday, they could still compete for the Supporters’ Shield, potentially finishing the season with 71 points if they win all remaining matches. However, Columbus would also need Inter Miami to falter to take the title.

While the match between Columbus and Inter Miami next Wednesday is critical, Inter Miami is prioritizing their home game against Charlotte first.

“It’s important for the leaders and the coaches to communicate that we should focus on one match at a time,” said goalie Drake Callender. “If we think too far ahead, it might distract us from being fully present in the current moment.”