Lionel Messi Secures Historic MLS Cup Victory with Inter Miami

Inter Miami CF, led by Lionel Messi, has clinched its first MLS Cup title, defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 3-1 on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The victory marks a significant milestone for the club and solidifies Messi’s impact on North American soccer.

Messi’s Pivotal Role in the Championship

Lionel Messi delivered two crucial assists, setting up Rodrigo De Paul and Tadeo Allende for goals that propelled Inter Miami to victory. He was subsequently named the MLS Cup MVP, recognizing his outstanding performance in the final match. ESPN reports Messi hailed the win as a “beautiful, emotional moment” for the club and the city of Miami.

Match Highlights

The match began with an early lead for Inter Miami in the eighth minute, courtesy of an own goal by Vancouver’s Édier Ocampo. Vancouver responded with a goal from Ali Ahmed in the 60th minute, leveling the score. However, Messi’s assist to Rodrigo De Paul in the 71st minute restored Inter Miami’s advantage. Tadeo Allende sealed the victory with a goal in the 96th minute, bringing the final score to 3-1. MLS Soccer provides a detailed recap of the scoring plays.

A Season of Accolades for Messi

This MLS Cup victory caps off an exceptional year for Lionel Messi. He previously led Inter Miami to victory in the Leagues Cup in 2023 and secured the Supporters’ Shield in 2024. USA Today highlights that since joining Inter Miami in July 2023, Messi has transformed the club and ignited a new era for soccer in North America.

Looking Ahead

With his contract with Inter Miami extending through 2028, Messi is poised to continue making history in MLS. The focus now shifts to the 2026 World Cup, where he and the Argentinian national team will begin their title defense against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas, USA.