Messi delivers Inter Miami maiden MLS Cup title, lifts his 47th career trophy

Inter Miami secured their first MLS Cup crown on Saturday, beating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3–1 at Inter Miami claimed their maiden MLS Cup title with a 3–1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps at Chase Stadium, sealed by late goals from Rodrigo De Paul and Tadeo Allende off two inch-perfect assists from Lionel Messi.

Vancouver, led by an industrious Thomas Mueller, dominated large spells and carved out the clearer chances, but the game turned on Messi's class. The Argentine delivered when it mattered most, securing his first MLS championship and rounding off his finest season in the United States. The triumph also takes his career trophy tally to 47.

"This was one of our main goals," Messi, who was named MVP, said. "Last year we finished first in the league and unfortunately we were knocked out in the first round. The MLS was the ultimate prize. The team put in a tremendous effort and rose to the occasion," the 38-year-old added.

Miami opened the scoring in the eighth minute when Messi slipped Allende into space and the winger’s low cross deflected off Vancouver defender Edier Ocampo and into his own net. Vancouver kept control of the ball after the break and finally made it count on the hour mark when Ali Ahmed drove into the box and fired a low shot that Rios Novo reached but could not keep out, the ball rolling over the line to bring the visitors level.

Miami restored their lead in the 71st minute when Messi pounced on a loose Vancouver touch and slid the ball across the box for Rodrigo De Paul, who swept his finish past Yohei Takaoka to cap the move with trademark composure.

The hosts sealed the title deep into stoppage time when Messi threaded a pass to Allende, sparking emotional scenes with Jordi Alba in tears as he and Sergio Busquets — longtime friends and former Barcelona teammates — closed out their final match.

"I'm happy for them. Finishing their careers this way is very nice for everyone," Messi said of his teammates. "Something very beautiful is coming to an end for them, something to which they have devoted their entire lives. I wish them all the best. They are two friends whom I love very much, and I am happy that they can leave with this title," he added. 

Joy for Beckham
David Beckham, the club's co-owner and longtime architect of Miami's project, joined the on-field celebrations after the final whistle.

"All credit to Vancouver, they played a great game and put us under a lot of pressure. After their goal they were on top of us," the former England captain said. "When you give the ball to Leo (Messi), he creates chances. The team stuck together, and they’ve done that all year," he added. 

Beckham said that the path to the title had been anything but smooth: "There were a lot of sleepless nights. I always believed in Miami and in bringing a team here... We promised our fans we’d bring the best players and bring success. Next year is a new year and we go again — but tonight, we celebrate."