Inter Miami won the MLS Cup by defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps — another big achievement in the club’s short history. Captain Lionel Messi played a major role in this title win. After a highly successful career in European football, Messi joined Inter Miami last summer. Shortly after joining, he delivered the club’s first trophy — the Leagues Cup.
From the very beginning of Saturday’s historic match at Chase Stadium, Miami’s dominance was clear. Early in the game, Rodrigo De Paul’s precise long pass found Tadeo Allende. His cross deflected off Vancouver defender Edier Ocampo and ended up in the net, giving Miami the lead.
However, after conceding, Vancouver came back strongly. Before halftime, Miami were saved twice by brilliant saves from goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo.
The tempo rose even higher in the second half. Vancouver survived when Messi’s header toward an open post went narrowly wide, and soon after, a shot from Ali Ahmed hit the post and went in, leveling the match. Immediately after, Emmanuel Sabbi’s strike hit the post and bounced out, rescuing Miami.
But at the crucial moment, Messi made the difference. With a trademark sharp pass, he found teammate Rodrigo De Paul, who calmly slotted the ball into the net. In the 96th minute of added time, Tadeo Allende scored again from another Messi assist, sealing Miami’s historic 3–1 victory.
This match was not only about winning the trophy — it was also the farewell match for two of Miami’s veterans, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. It seemed Messi delivered this magical performance to make their final appearance unforgettable.
This was the 26th major final of Messi’s career, and his 18th title win in such matches. According to FIFA regulations, the Eastern Conference trophy does not count as an official title in Messi’s career, as FIFA does not formally recognize MLS conference titles — only the Playoff Eastern Champion. The league’s only official major trophy is the MLS Cup. Therefore, with last night’s MLS Cup victory, Messi’s official career trophy count has risen to 47.
