Messi’s Magic Leads Inter Miami to MLS Cup Glory, Halting Whitecaps’ Stunning Streak

3-1 Victory

Fort Lauderdale – This match marked the hottest MLS Cup final ever, with temperatures soaring to 28 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit) and humidity at 60% by kickoff. The 2:30 pm start time at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale brought a sweltering heat that affected the players. Anticipation was high for a showdown between Lionel Messi and Thomas Müller, but it was the collective effort of the team that led to Inter Miami’s narrow 3-1 victory in front of 21,556 fans. This win marks Inter Miami’s first-ever MLS Cup title.

Inter Miami struck first when Édier Ocampo slotted in a low cross, catching Yohei Takaoka off guard. The Vancouver Whitecaps regrouped and showcased resilience, maintaining over 60% possession during the match. They created several opportunities, with Emmanuel Sabbi coming close just before halftime, but Rocco Ríos Novo made a crucial save. The Whitecaps equalized in the second half when Ali Ahmed darted into the box and found the net after slipping the ball past Ríos Novo. Ahmed made history as the second Canadian to score in an MLS Cup Final, following Dwayne De Rosario.

Despite the momentum, Vancouver continued to press for their second goal. Just after their equalizer, Sabbi had another excellent chance, but his shot hit both posts and stayed out. Instead, it was Inter Miami who would find the back of the net once more when Messi delivered a perfectly timed through ball to Rodrigo De Paul, who finished with precision. In a dramatic conclusion, Tadeo Allende (90+6’) set a new record for the MLS Cup Playoffs by scoring his ninth goal.

Inter Miami CF Claims First Trophy – Whitecaps Suffer Second Final Defeat

As a result, Messi improved his head-to-head record against Müller, now having bested him twice in nine competitive matches. This also marks the first time Messi has triumphed over Müller in a major final, having previously lost to him in the 2014 World Cup final. For the Whitecaps, this defeat marks their second loss in three finals this season. While they did secure the Canadian Championship by defeating local rivals Vancouver FC (4-2), they also suffered a loss in the CONCACAF Champions Cup final against Cruz Azul (5-0).

Nonetheless, the season has been filled with positives, especially considering the uncertainties that preceded it. The ownership’s decision to sell the club has left questions about the team’s future post-2026, but the strong performance this year has ignited discussions about securing a permanent home in Vancouver, with fans showing overwhelming support. Notably, a watch party at BC Place garnered an attendance of 24,452, surpassing that of Chase Stadium.

Ultimately, while the contest was closely fought, individual talents like Messi, De Paul, and Allende made decisive contributions that led to Miami’s victory. This triumph feels like a crowning moment for Messi and his teammates. Looking forward, questions arise about the future of key players, as Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba are set to retire, and Luis Suárez may also conclude his MLS journey. Messi will need to stay in peak form for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, while Inter Miami CF anticipates the opening of Freedom Park in 2026. Owners David Beckham and Jorge Mas will look to harness this victory’s momentum to build a lasting legacy around Messi, a task that won’t be easy given the turnover expected in the squad.