FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – In a thrilling finale to the 2025 Major League Soccer season, Inter Miami CF secured their first-ever MLS Cup title, defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1. The championship victory, witnessed by a roaring crowd at Chase Stadium, marks a monumental achievement for the club and solidifies their place in MLS history.

The match was a captivating affair, with Inter Miami displaying resilience and tactical prowess against a determined Vancouver side. An early own goal by Vancouver's Édier Ocampo in the 8th minute put Inter Miami ahead, setting the tone for a high-stakes contest. However, the Whitecaps responded in the second half, with Ali Ahmed finding the back of the net in the 60th minute to level the score.

As tension mounted, Lionel Messi, the talismanic forward for Inter Miami, stepped up to orchestrate the decisive plays. In the 72nd minute, Messi skillfully dispossessed Vancouver's Andrés Cubas and delivered a perfectly weighted through ball to Rodrigo De Paul, who calmly slotted it past the goalkeeper to restore Inter Miami's lead.

With Inter Miami clinging to a narrow lead, the Whitecaps pressed forward in search of an equalizer, leaving themselves vulnerable at the back. In the dying moments of stoppage time, Messi once again showcased his brilliance, providing an assist to Tadeo Allende, who sealed the victory with a composed finish. The goal was Allende's ninth of the postseason, setting a new record.

Tadeo Allende, the Argentine winger on loan from Celta Vigo, has emerged as a key offensive player for Inter Miami throughout the 2025 season. With 11 goals in the regular season and a crucial goal in the MLS Cup final, Allende has proven to be an indispensable asset to the team. His versatility and ability to perform in different positions across the pitch have made him a valuable weapon in Inter Miami's attack.

The victory was especially sweet for Inter Miami, as it marked the end of an era for Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, who played their final match. The win also signifies the closing of Chase Stadium, with the team set to move to Miami Freedom Park next season.

Inter Miami's journey to the MLS Cup title has been nothing short of remarkable. Following the arrival of Lionel Messi, the club has experienced a meteoric rise, capturing their first major trophy, the 2023 Leagues Cup. They also secured their first Supporters' Shield in the 2024 season, earning a spot in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

The MLS Cup victory is a testament to the leadership of head coach Javier Mascherano, who instilled a winning mentality and tactical discipline within the team. The contributions of players like goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo and Mateo Silvetti have also been instrumental in Inter Miami's success.

As the final whistle blew, the stadium erupted in jubilation, with Inter Miami's pink-clad fans celebrating their team's historic achievement. The city of Miami has embraced soccer, and Lionel Messi has cemented his legacy by leading Inter Miami to their first MLS Cup title.