WHAT HAPPENED?

Beckham, Messi and Brady posed for a photo together as the three stars watched Inter Miami book their place in the MLS playoffs with a 2-0 win over FC Cincinnati on Saturday night. Beckham, co-owner of the Herons, and seven-time Super Bowl winner Brady were filmed in conversation with each other as they sat in the stands, with Messi also spectating as the Argentine continues to nurse an ankle injury.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

It is no wonder Beckham was in a celebratory mood, as a brace from Luis Suarez secured Inter Miami’s playoff spot. Gerardo Martino’s side entered the match with just a five-point lead over FC Cincinnati, but Suarez calmed any nerves inside Chase Stadium by scoring twice inside the opening six minutes en route to a pivotal three points.

WHAT BECKHAM SAID

Beckham wrote on Instagram: “THE GREATEST. Doesn’t get any better @leomessi @tombrady to watch us go into the playoffs @intermiamicf xx”.

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DID YOU KNOW?

Inter Miami have hardly suffered in Messi’s absence, winning seven of their past eight MLS fixtures and wrapping up a playoff spot without their talisman. The 37-year-old is expected to be fully fit in time for the post-season, which gets underway in October, with Martino confirming this week that Messi will play again in the regular season.

WHAT NEXT FOR INTER MIAMI?

Beckham will be delighted to have a playoff spot secured with plenty of time to spare; there’s no need to rush Messi back and Inter Miami can ensure he is fully ready for crunch time. The Herons travel to Chicago to take on the Fire in their next outing on August 31.