Inter Miami and Lionel Messi sealed their place in Major League Soccer history on Saturday night, defeating Vancouver Whitecaps 3–1 at a jubilant Chase Stadium to capture their first-ever MLS Cup title.
Messi once again proved the difference, delivering two second-half assists in what he described as a “beautiful, emotional moment.”
The victory caps a stunning rise for the club that sat near the bottom of MLS before Messi’s 2023 arrival and now becomes the 16th franchise in MLS history to lift the coveted Philip F. Anschutz Trophy.
Lionel Messi Win MLS Cup MVP Award
Messi, named MLS Cup MVP, was effusive in his praise for the team and the city afterward.
“A beautiful, emotional moment for us, for the people of Miami, to be able to achieve the MLS objective,” Messi told ESPN.
“It’s a very new club, so to speak. When we played before, we were lucky enough to win a title, but this was the real objective, to win MLS and be at the top of the American league, and luckily we achieved it.”
“We were fortunate to play at home, a huge joy for the people, so we have to enjoy it.”
Messi’s contributions elevated his postseason tally to 15 goal involvements, a new MLS playoff record.
The win also marked the 44th major trophy of Messi’s remarkable senior career and his third with Miami following;
- the 2023 Leagues Cup and
- 2024 Supporters’ Shield.
MATCH OVERVIEW: Own Goal and Messi’s Masterclass
The final began in dramatic fashion as Miami took the lead inside eight minutes when Vancouver’s Édier Ocampo turned Tadeo Allende’s driven effort into his own net.
Despite the early setback, Vancouver grew into the contest, with Thomas Müller orchestrating their attacks.
Their persistence paid off in the 60th minute when Ali Ahmed equalized from range, his bouncing strike slipping past Rocco Ríos Novo.
As momentum tilted toward the Canadians, Messi seized control.
In the 71st minute, he robbed possession high up the pitch before threading a masterful pass to Rodrigo De Paul, who calmly slotted home for 2–1.
Miami sealed the title in stoppage time when Messi again provided the final flourish, this time assisting Allende in the 96th minute to send Chase Stadium into chaos.
First-Year Coach Mascherano Lifts the Cup
Head coach Javier Mascherano, who arrived in November 2024 with no previous club coaching experience, celebrated wildly at the final whistle.
“I’m very happy for him. I’m very happy because of the season that he played..…,” he said of Messi.
“For him it was very, very special and very important to win this trophy. He came here to win this trophy.”
Mascherano praised his players’ fight after a turbulent year that included defeats in the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals, Leagues Cup final, and FIFA Club World Cup round of 16.
“I think the players have had the strength to bounce back from every tough moment we’ve experienced this season,” he said ahead of the final.
“It’s all or nothing… let’s hope we wake up very hungry on Saturday.”
And they did.
Alba and Busquets Retire as Champions
The night was especially emotional as Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets played the final matches of their illustrious careers.
Messi paid heartfelt tribute:
“Special because we also arrived here together from the beginning, the three of us, and the objective… was this: to win this title, which is very important for the growth of the club.”
“And I’m truly happy that they can leave in this way, celebrating a title. They are the best friends, I love them very much… I wish them the best.”
Mascherano echoed the sentiment:
“The joy and the power of saying goodbye to two football legends, in the best possible way, as they deserved, with a great send-off.”
The farewell scenes were unforgettable—Messi, Suarez, Busquets, and Alba jumping in a circle as pink smoke filled the air.
THE STORY BEHIND INTER MIAMI’S TITLE
From bold tactical changes to selfless veteran decisions, Miami’s path to glory required collective sacrifice.
A key twist came when Mascherano dropped Luis Suárez to the bench during the playoffs, a tough call but one that paid off.
Messi even prioritised Miami over an Argentina friendly, a decision Mascherano highlighted:
“Beyond not training with us, we saw what he did today. He helped us win.”
That win secured third place in the East, crucial for home-field advantage in the final.
Goalkeeper Oscar Ustari gracefully stepped aside for Ríos Novo, symbolising Miami’s team-first mentality.
Mascherano summed it up:
“It’s not only the 11 who start… everyone has to be alert because we’re going to need everyone.”
BECKHAM’S DREAM FULFILLED
Co-owner David Beckham, who began the Miami project back in 2013, reflected on the achievement and lauded Messi’s dedication and involvement;
“It’s been an incredible journey.”
“He’s not just here to enjoy living in Miami… He wants to win. Leo is a winner. It’s simple as that.”
With a new stadium set to open next season and Messi contracted into his 40s, Inter Miami will aim to defend their crown and build an enduring dynasty.
