The Argentine superstar capped off his third season in Major League Soccer with the 47th trophy of his career.
Published December 7, 2025
Inter Miami won their first Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup on Saturday, defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 at Chase Stadium with late goals from Rodrigo de Paul and Tadeo Allende off assists from Lionel Messi.
Despite Thomas Muller leading the Vancouver team, controlling long stretches and creating better chances, the final ultimately hinged on the Argentine’s influence, as he won his first MLS league title and capped off his best season on American soil.
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“This was one of our main goals,” said Messi, who was named MVP.
“Last year, we finished first in the league, but unfortunately we were eliminated in the first round. MLS was the ultimate prize. The team overcame this situation with great effort,” the 38-year-old added.
Miami took the lead in the eighth minute when Messi slipped Allende into space and the winger’s low cross was deflected by Vancouver defender Eddie Ocampo and into their own goal.
Vancouver continued to control the ball after the break, and at the final hour mark Ali Ahmed drove into the box and fired a low shot that Rios Novo could reach but was unable to stop, and the ball went over the line to equalize for the visitors.
Miami regained the lead in the 71st minute when Messi pounced on Vancouver’s loose touch and slipped the ball into the box for Rodrigo de Paul to score, past Yohei Takaoka to finish off the move with his trademark calm.
Messi’s pass to Allende late in stoppage time sealed the title for the hosts, and there were emotional scenes that brought Jordi Alba to tears as he sealed the final match with his long-time friend and former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets.
“I’m happy for them. It’s very good for everyone to end their career in this way,” Messi said of his teammates.
“For them, something so beautiful, something they have dedicated their entire lives to, is coming to an end. I wish them all the best. They are friends that I love very much, and I’m glad they can leave with this title.”
beckham’s joy
David Beckham, the club’s co-owner and longtime architect of the Miami project, also joined in the on-field celebrations after the final whistle.
“Thanks to Vancouver, they played a great game and put a lot of pressure on us. They were on top of us after the goal,” said the former England captain.
“When you give the ball to Leo (Messi), he creates chances. The team sticks together and has been doing that all year long.”
He added that the road to the title was not a smooth one. “There were a lot of sleepless nights. I always believed in Miami and in bringing the team here… I promised the fans that we would bring the best players and bring success. Next year is a new year and we’ll be there again, but tonight we celebrate.”
