FORT LAUDERDALE, Dec 7 — Lionel Messi played a decisive role as Inter Miami clinched their first-ever MLS Cup title with a 3–1 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday in Florida.
FORT LAUDERDALE, Dec 7 — Lionel Messi played a decisive role as Inter Miami clinched their first-ever MLS Cup title with a 3–1 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday in Florida.
The Argentine superstar set up two goals and was instrumental in another, igniting celebrations among the home supporters at Chase Stadium. Messi, who was named MLS Cup Most Valuable Player, described the triumph as a long-awaited moment for both himself and the team.
Inter Miami took an early advantage through an eighth-minute own goal by Edier Ocampo, but the Whitecaps fought back after the break when Ali Ahmed struck the equaliser in the 60th minute. Vancouver nearly took the lead soon after, with Emmanuel Sabbi hitting both posts in the 62nd minute.
Momentum shifted dramatically when Vancouver midfielder Andres Cubas was dispossessed by Messi while lingering on the ball. Messi surged forward before setting up Rodrigo De Paul, who made no mistake to restore Miami’s lead. In injury time, Messi again turned provider, threading a pass for Tadeo Allende to seal the 3–1 victory.
The title marks a major milestone for Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham, who said the achievement justified years of belief and planning to build a successful club in the city. He credited patience, the right partnerships and the commitment to bringing top-level talent to the team.
Vancouver coach Jesper Sorensen admitted his side were made to pay for costly mistakes. Despite enjoying strong spells, the Canadians were unable to recover after conceding De Paul’s goal against the run of play.
The victory represents the crowning moment of Inter Miami’s rise since entering Major League Soccer in 2020 and following the arrival of Messi in 2023. It also signalled an emotional farewell for Messi’s former Barcelona teammates Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, who are set to retire.
Messi said the reunion with Alba and Busquets ended in the best possible way, calling their send-off special for both the club and the players, whom he described as among the greatest in football history. — AFP
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