The 2025 MLS Cup final is set to be a historic match, as Inter Miami CF hosts the Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Saturday, December 6, at 2:30 pm ET. Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, will be the battleground where a first-time champion will be crowned, marking the end of the league's 30th season.
Both Inter Miami and Vancouver are making their inaugural appearance in the MLS Cup final. Inter Miami, champions of the Eastern Conference, have been on a dominant run throughout the postseason. Vancouver, representing the Western Conference, secured their place after defeating San Diego FC.
How to Watch:
- Streaming: The match will be available on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
- USA: In the United States, the game will be broadcast on FOX and FOX Deportes.
- Canada: Canadian viewers can tune in to TSN and RDS.
Team News and Key Players
Inter Miami has been steamrolling opponents, with impressive wins in the previous rounds. Lionel Messi has been in exceptional form, holding a playoff-record of 13 goal contributions (6 goals and 7 assists) and having secured the 2025 MLS Golden Boot with 29 goals and 19 assists during the regular season. Tadeo Allende has also been a key player, tying the single-season playoff record with eight goals. Veteran players Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba are expected to retire after the final match.
Vancouver's journey has been marked by strong team play. Thomas Muller, the German World Cup winner, has integrated well, contributing nine goals and four assists in 12 matches. Sebastian Berhalter has been a standout in midfield with four goals and 10 assists, while Brian White leads the team in scoring with 18 goals.
Storylines
This match marks a clash between two legends of the game, Lionel Messi and Thomas Muller. It is also the fourth-ever meeting between Miami and Vancouver. The Whitecaps hold a head-to-head advantage, having won both of their Concacaf Champions Cup semi-final games in April. However, Inter Miami did win their only MLS regular season match in 2024.
Inter Miami has found another level during the postseason, outscoring their opponents by a significant margin. Since Messi's arrival in July 2023, Inter Miami has secured the Leagues Cup (2023) and Supporters' Shield (2024) titles. Vancouver will be making their third road trip of the postseason, having already defeated FC Dallas and San Diego FC.
Prediction
While Vancouver has shown they can beat Miami, the Herons are currently the favorites. Inter Miami's potent attack, led by Messi and supported by Allende and others, poses a significant threat to any defense. Vancouver's hopes rely on their organized team play and the brilliance of Muller and White.
