Unstoppable Lionel Messi leads Inter Miami to MLS Cup glory

Inter Miami secured their maiden MLS Cup title on Saturday, defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 in a thrilling final hosted at Chase Stadium.

The victory, achieved in the club's sixth season, was largely inspired by a decisive performance from star forward Lionel Messi.

The match was tightly contested. Miami took an early lead after Édier Ocampo put the ball into his own net in the eighth minute. However, Canadian international Ali Ahmed levelled the score for the Whitecaps just past the hour mark in the 60th minute, setting up a tense finish.

Messi then took command, providing two crucial assists. The match-winning goal arrived in the 71st minute when the Argentine stole possession and threaded a perfect pass to Rodrigo De Paul, who finished clinically for the 2-1 lead.

Messi completed his contribution in stoppage time, expertly setting up Tadeo Allende to seal the 3-1 result.

This trophy win provides a magnificent send-off for club legends Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, who announced their retirements after the 2025 season.

The triumph validates the club's ambitious, star-studded project and confirms Miami's place as the 16th franchise to lift the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy.