Inter Miami achieved a historic milestone as Lionel Messi guided the club to its first-ever MLS Cup title with a 3-1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps. The Argentine superstar provided two decisive assists, cementing his status as the centerpiece of Inter Miami’s meteoric rise in Major League Soccer.
The MLS Cup final took place at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with co-owner David Beckham witnessing the historic moment. Inter Miami’s goals came through Rodrigo De Paul, Tadeo Allende, and an own goal from Vancouver’s Edier Ocampo. Vancouver managed to score through Ali Ahmed, but Messi’s brilliance proved decisive.
Messi, who joined Inter Miami midway through the 2023 season, has already transformed the team, previously languishing at the bottom of the MLS standings. His vision, experience, and leadership on the field helped secure Inter Miami’s first MLS Cup title in just its third season in the league.
Key Details: Inter Miami MLS Cup 2025
- Club: Inter Miami
- Achievement: First MLS Cup title
- Final Score: 3-1 vs Vancouver Whitecaps
- Key Players: Lionel Messi (2 assists), Rodrigo De Paul, Tadeo Allende
- Goal Contributions: Messi (2 assists), De Paul (goal), Allende (goal)
- Opponent: Vancouver Whitecaps
- Stadium: Chase Stadium, Fort Lauderdale
- Co-owner: David Beckham
- MLS Debut: 2020
- Manager: Javier Mascherano
- Messi MVP Award: Yes, MLS Cup Final
Match Progression
- Early advantage: Inter Miami took an early lead in the 8th minute via an own goal by Edier Ocampo, deflecting a shot from Tadeo Allende.
- Vancouver equalized: Ali Ahmed scored in the 60th minute after a well-coordinated attack, temporarily leveling the score at 1-1.
- Messi’s impact: In the 72nd minute, Messi assisted Rodrigo De Paul to regain the lead for Inter Miami.
- Sealing the victory: Messi delivered a final assist to Tadeo Allende in stoppage time, securing a 3-1 triumph and the MLS Cup title.
Lionel Messi’s arrival in MLS marked a turning point for Inter Miami. His skill, vision, and professionalism have elevated the club’s performance. Since signing in July 2023, Messi has helped the team win the Leagues Cup in 2023 and the Supporters’ Shield in 2024, with the MLS Cup title being the most prestigious trophy to date.
Messi’s performance in the final included two assists, a key defensive contribution, and leadership on the field. He was named the MLS Cup MVP, highlighting his central role in Inter Miami’s historic victory.
Inter Miami’s journey from MLS newcomers to champions demonstrates the vision of co-owner David Beckham. Beckham emphasized the club’s long-term goals: “We promised our fans success, and today we achieved that.” The club becomes the 16th franchise in MLS history to claim the MLS Cup title, marking a historic achievement in just five years since its debut in 2020.
Inter Miami’s triumph represents one of the fastest successes in MLS history. Messi’s leadership and star power have made the club a formidable force in the league. Vancouver Whitecaps, led by Thomas Müller, were strong competitors, but Messi’s influence proved decisive.
This victory marks Messi’s 44th senior trophy and his 15th goal contribution during this MLS playoffs, setting a record for a single postseason. Inter Miami now aims to build on this momentum as they plan to compete for consecutive titles in upcoming seasons.
Lionel Messi’s time in MLS is already transformative. His presence attracts global attention, elevates team performance, and inspires the next generation of players in the league. Inter Miami’s MLS Cup title under Messi’s guidance confirms the club’s arrival as a major force in North American football.
Messi also provided a sentimental farewell moment for teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, who retired after the MLS Cup final, adding an emotional touch to the historic event.
FAQs
Q: When did Inter Miami win their first MLS Cup title?
A: Inter Miami won their first MLS Cup title in December 2025, defeating Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1.
Q: Who scored for Inter Miami in the MLS Cup final?
A: Rodrigo De Paul and Tadeo Allende scored for Inter Miami, along with an own goal by Vancouver’s Edier Ocampo.
Q: How did Lionel Messi contribute to the win?
A: Messi provided two assists, controlled play in the midfield, and was named MLS Cup MVP.
Q: Who owns Inter Miami?
A: Inter Miami is co-owned by David Beckham.
Q: What other titles has Messi won with Inter Miami?
A: Messi helped Inter Miami win the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield.
Q: Where was the MLS Cup final held?
A: The final took place at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.