Lionel Messi added yet another glittering chapter to his storied career as Inter Miami clinched their first-ever MLS Cup title with a commanding 3–1 win over Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday. The Argentine legend not only orchestrated the victory with two assists but also walked away with the MLS Cup MVP award, further reinforcing his unmatched influence on the pitch at the age of 38.
Messi guides Miami to historic triumph
In front of a packed home crowd, Inter Miami showcased composure and control throughout the contest. Though Vancouver pushed back early, Miami’s midfield brilliance and front-line sharpness eventually proved decisive.
Messi, whose arrival transformed the club since his MLS switch three years ago, delivered two moments of magic late in the match. His first assist in the 71st minute set up Rodrigo de Paul, breaking Vancouver’s resistance. In second-half stoppage time, Messi threaded a precise ball for Tadeo Allende, sealing the 3–1 result and triggering celebrations across the stadium.
With these contributions, Messi completed a record-breaking postseason, amassing 15 goal contributions—six goals and nine assists—in just six games. This is now the highest in a single MLS postseason, underlining his continued dominance.
Messi reflects on long journey to MLS glory
The milestone was emotional for Messi, who spoke about the transformative journey since joining Inter Miami.
“Three years ago, I decided to come to MLS, and today we are MLS champions,” he said after lifting the trophy. “We reached the semifinals of the Champions Cup. Last year, we went out early in the league. This year, winning MLS was one of our main objectives.”
He praised his teammates for enduring a long season filled with travel, injuries and tight schedules. “The team made a huge effort — it was a very long year, with many matches, and we were up to the task all season. This is the moment we had been waiting for. It is very beautiful for all of us.”
A season for the ages
Messi’s 2025 MLS season was nothing short of spectacular. He ended the campaign with 29 goals and 19 assists, totalling 48 goal contributions—just one behind the MLS single-season record of 49 set by LAFC’s Carlos Vela in 2019.
At 38, he remains not just effective but decisive, leading the league in creativity, influence and big-match performances. Analysts and fans already expect him to be a frontrunner for the MLS MVP award, potentially becoming the first back-to-back MVP in league history.
Miami’s title run also highlighted their rising stature in North American football, having reached the semifinals of the Concacaf Champions Cup earlier in the year. With marquee signings, improved infrastructure and Messi’s leadership, the club now stands among the elite of the league.
Mascherano praises Messi’s impact
Inter Miami’s first-year head coach Javier Mascherano, Messi’s long-time friend and former Argentina teammate, was effusive in his praise.
“I’m very happy for him,” said Mascherano. “He had an extraordinary season. For him it was very, very special and very important to win this trophy. He came here to win this trophy.”
Mascherano credited Messi’s influence not just in decisive moments but also in shaping the mentality of the squad, raising training standards, and guiding young talents.
What this win means for Inter Miami
The MLS Cup victory signals a turning point for Miami. From finishing early last year to lifting their first league trophy this season, the club has undergone a dramatic evolution driven by strategic recruitment and Messi’s presence.
The impact goes beyond football — from record-breaking ticket sales to global viewership spikes, Inter Miami have embraced new commercial heights.
Conclusion
Inter Miami’s maiden MLS Cup win will be remembered as a defining moment in the club’s short history, and at the heart of it stands Lionel Messi, still rewriting football’s script deep into his illustrious career. As he continues breaking barriers and setting new standards, MLS fans may witness yet more milestones in the seasons ahead.