The Digest:
Inter Miami CF, led by Lionel Messi, have been crowned MLS Cup champions after defeating Vancouver Whitecaps FC 3-1 in a dramatic final at Chase Stadium. Messi provided two crucial second-half assists, sealing the club's first-ever MLS title and capping its meteoric rise since his arrival in 2023. Rooted in the Storm.
Key Points:
- Inter Miami won their first MLS Cup, defeating Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 in the final.
- Lionel Messi delivered two assists, including the game-winning pass to Rodrigo De Paul in the 71st minute.
- De Paul and Tadeo Allende scored Miami’s second-half goals, with Allende netting a record 8th playoff goal.
- Vancouver equalized in the 60th minute through Ali Ahmed after an early own goal had put Miami ahead.
- The victory marks Messi’s world-record 47th career trophy and caps an era with retiring legends Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets.
- Inter Miami have now won the Leagues Cup (2023), Supporters’ Shield (2024), and MLS Cup (2025) in the Messi era.
- The club will move into the new Miami Freedom Park stadium next April as reigning champions.
- Messi finished the playoffs with a record 15 goal contributions (6 goals, 9 assists).
This historic triumph solidifies Inter Miami’s place among North America’s elite and fulfills the ultimate promise of the Messi project, delivering the league’s ultimate prize spectacularly.
Sources: Major League Soccer (MLS) official report, match analysis.
