Lionel Messi etched his name further into soccer history on Saturday, December 6, 2025, by leading Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup final. This triumph not only secured Inter Miami's first-ever MLS Cup but also added Messi to a very exclusive list: players who have won both the FIFA World Cup and the MLS Cup.

The significance of this achievement is hard to overstate. After joining Inter Miami in July 2023, Messi's mission was clear: to bring a title to the ambitious club. Having already secured the Leagues Cup in 2023 and the Supporters' Shield in 2024, the MLS Cup was the ultimate prize. For Messi, this victory marks his 47th career trophy, extending his record as the most decorated player in soccer history. He was also named the MLS Cup MVP for his outstanding performance, contributing two assists in the final.

Joining Messi on this distinguished list are his Inter Miami teammates, Sergio Busquets and Rodrigo De Paul. Busquets, a World Cup winner with Spain in 2010, adds another trophy to his illustrious career as he heads into retirement. De Paul, a key member of Argentina's 2022 World Cup-winning squad, scored a crucial goal in the 71st minute of the final, helping Inter Miami regain the lead.

Inter Miami's victory was a culmination of their "big-star approach," showcasing that investing in top talent can indeed lead to success in MLS. The final at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale was a hard-fought battle. An own goal by Vancouver's Ediér Ocampo gave Miami an early lead, but Ali Ahmed's equalizer in the 60th minute threatened to derail their hopes. However, Messi's brilliance shone through as he set up De Paul's go-ahead goal and later assisted Tadeo Allende'sInsurance goal in stoppage time. Allende broke Carlos Ruiz’s previous record of eight goals in the 2002 postseason, with nine goals in the MLS Cup playoffs.

This victory also carries emotional weight as it marks the end of careers for Spanish legends Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, both of whom are retiring after the game. Their contributions alongside Messi have solidified Inter Miami's place in MLS history.

Looking ahead, attention now turns to whether Messi will participate in the 2026 World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. At 39 years old, Messi has stated that he has been in discussions with Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni regarding his participation. Having already made a record 26 World Cup appearances, Messi's potential presence in 2026 would undoubtedly be a major draw for the tournament.

The Inter Miami's MLS Cup victory is a testament to Messi's enduring legacy and his continued impact on the sport. It also underscores the growing appeal and competitiveness of Major League Soccer, attracting world-class talent and captivating fans across North America.