Lionel Messi led Inter Miami to their first-ever MLS Cup championship, securing a 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps. This historic win culminates a remarkable ascent for the club since Messi's arrival, adding another major trophy to his unparalleled legacy.
Lionel Messi, already a legend with a World Cup and numerous trophies, solidified his legacy further by leading Inter Miami to their first MLS Cup championship. Beating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 on Saturday, this victory came 2 1/2 years after his stunning arrival in South Florida. Messi, who had previously led the team to a Leagues Cup trophy in 2023 and the MLS Supporters’ Shield, stated that winning the MLS Cup was a main objective for the team this year. He played a pivotal role in the final, setting up the title-clinching goal in the 72nd minute with an assist to Rodrigo De Paul and another in stoppage time for Tadeo Allende. The win marks a significant achievement for Inter Miami, transforming a last-place team into league champions, a vision long held by co-owner David Beckham and managing owner Jorge Mas. This trophy is Messi's 47th (or 48th, depending on counting conference titles), extending his global men's soccer record. It also allows longtime teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba to retire as champions. The triumph underscores the growing prominence of soccer in South Florida and the league's competitive parity, with Inter Miami becoming the 16th franchise to win an MLS title in its 30-year history.
