Inter Miami Celebrates Historic MLS Cup Victory
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Inter Miami CF secured their first-ever MLS Cup title, defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 in a thrilling match at Chase Stadium. The victory marks a significant milestone in the club's history, just two and a half years after Lionel Messi's arrival in South Florida.
The final was a captivating contest that saw Inter Miami take an early lead due to an own goal by Vancouver's Édier Ocampo in the 8th minute. However, Vancouver responded in the 60th minute with a goal from Canadian international Ali Ahmed. The second half belonged to Inter Miami, with Rodrigo De Paul scoring in the 71st minute, assisted by Messi, and Tadeo Allende sealing the victory with a goal in the 96th minute, also assisted by Messi.
Lionel Messi's impact on Inter Miami has been transformative since he joined the team in July 2023. The MLS Cup win is the team's most sought-after trophy since his arrival. Inter Miami had previously won the Leagues Cup in 2023 and the Supporters' Shield in 2024. Messi's performance in the final earned him the MLS Cup 2025 MVP award. He provided two assists in the match and set a new single postseason record with 15 goal contributions (6 goals and 9 assists). This victory marks the 47th trophy for Messi in his club and country career, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest soccer players of all time.
Inter Miami's journey to the MLS Cup wasn't easy. They beat New York City FC 5-1 to win the Eastern Conference Championship. The final match was held at Chase Stadium due to Inter Miami's better regular-season record compared to Vancouver Whitecaps FC.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber acknowledged Messi's impact on soccer in South Florida during the trophy ceremony. The victory extends a run of parity in MLS, with five different franchises winning championships in the last five years. Inter Miami becomes the 16th franchise in the league's 30-year history to win an MLS title.
The victory was especially significant for Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, who previously announced their retirement plans after the 2025 season. They leave Inter Miami as champions. Messi, along with De Paul and Busquets, also became the first players to win a World Cup and an MLS Cup in their careers.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami will open Miami Freedom Park next April. Messi recently signed a contract extension with the team through 2028 and aims to continue making history with the club.
