Inter Miami secured their first MLS Cup after a 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps, with Lionel Messi producing yet another decisive performance. The Argentine delivered two sublime assists including the game-winner and played a central role in the club’s most significant triumph since joining MLS in 2023.
Miami struck early at a packed Chase Stadium when Tadeo Allende’s low ball into the box forced a mistake from Édier Ocampo, who diverted it into his own net in the eighth minute. Vancouver responded strongly, with captain Thomas Müller dictating play and the visitors controlling much of the first half.
Their pressure paid off on 60 minutes when Ali Ahmed’s shot bounced awkwardly and slipped past Rocco Ríos Novo to level the match. The momentum appeared to tilt towards Vancouver, who enjoyed 65 percent of possession and pressed high under Jesper Sørensen.
But one mistake—and one moment of Messi brilliance—changed the night. In the 71st minute, Messi intercepted an errant pass from Andrés Cubas and, with his trademark precision, released Rodrigo De Paul with a perfectly weighted ball. The midfielder finished calmly to restore Miami’s lead in front of a roaring home crowd.
Vancouver pushed for an equaliser, but Messi again stamped his authority in stoppage time. His clever pass found Allende in the 96th minute, and the forward fired home his record-breaking ninth goal of the postseason to secure the trophy.
The final whistle also marked the end of two illustrious careers, with Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba both retiring after the match. For Messi, meanwhile, the night added yet another milestone: the 44th title of his career and his third with Inter Miami, following the Leagues Cup in 2023 and the Supporters’ Shield in 2024.
Inter Miami’s triumph makes them the 16th club to win MLS Cup, continuing the league’s remarkable competitive balance—eight different franchises have now lifted the trophy in the past nine seasons.
