Magic Messi Inspires Inter Miami to First-Ever MLS Cup Title
In an exhilarating final played before a rapturous home crowd at Fort Lauderdale’s Chase Stadium, Lionel Messi orchestrated Inter Miami’s relentless march to their inaugural MLS Cup triumph, triumphing 3-1 over the Vancouver Whitecaps.
Messi’s Masterclass
Argentina’s superstar prolific creator set up two goals and was instrumental in crafting another, leaving his indelible mark on the historic occasion. His emphatic performance was the icing on the cake of Miami’s three-year journey since joining the league in 2020.
Kings of MLS. 👑
@InterMiamiCF are the 2025 MLS Cup Champions. #MLSCup pic.twitter.com/u6gYhvOY5Q
Turning Tides
Inter Miami went ahead early thanks to an own goal from Vancouver’s Edier Ocampo. Vancouver, with German legend Thomas Müller spearheading their attack, fought back and equalized through Ali Ahmed in the 60th minute.
The Whitecaps squandered a golden opportunity to take the lead moments later when Emmanuel Sabbi’s shot struck both posts, Michel Vorm smoked bullet-like save sealing Miami’s reprieve. However, Miami struck back with force, fueled by Messi’s breathtaking intervention.
🚨 Stadium went LOUD for the Messi x De Paul goal 🔊
@InterMiamiCF // #MLSCup pic.twitter.com/fhee1IkoNa
Messi’s Magic Touch
A disastrous error by Vancouver’s midfielder Andrés Cubas gifted the Ballon d’Or winner a chance to put Miami back in front. Messi skipped clear, releasing Rodrigo De Paul for a calm, collected finish that put Inter Miami 2-1 up. Vancouver crumbled under the pressure and succumbed to another sucker punch, Tadeo Allende scrambling home Messi’s final assist in the dying minutes to seal a 3-1 triumph.
🎊 INTER MIAMI LIFT THE TROPHY 🎊
@InterMiamiCF // #MLSCup pic.twitter.com/IvRrsT5L9d
David Beckham’s Vision Realized
Miami’s first MLS crown provided seminal validation for co-owner David Beckham, who dreamt of bringing success to the Florida-based club. “There were moments of doubt, but I always believed in bringing the team here, finding the right partners, and now we’ve achieved that,” said Beckham, reflecting on his dream realized.
An Era Ends
The triumph marked the twilight of the playing careers of two Spanish legends, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, crucial figures in Miami’s rise.
FAQs
Who was the coach of Inter Miami?
Phil Neville
When did Inter Miami join the MLS?
2020
Pro Tip
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Comeback King
In typical fashion, Messi led the comeback and inspired his teammates to epic heights. His heroics cemented his status as Inter Miami’s magician-in-chief and the undisputed architech of their glorious MLS Cup victory.
Join the Conversation: Have you been following Inter Miami’s remarkable journey? Who was your standout player from the MLS Cup final? Let us know in the comments, and share your favorite moments from the match on social media.