What's Happening?
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami were defeated by the Seattle Sounders in the 2025 Leagues Cup final, held at Lumen Field. The Sounders won 3-0, preventing Miami from claiming their second Leagues Cup title, which they previously won in 2023. Seattle's victory marks their ninth trophy since joining Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2009. The match saw Seattle's Osaze De Rosario score the opening goal in the 26th minute, followed by a penalty conversion by Alex Roldan in the 84th minute, and a final goal by Paul Rothrock in the 89th minute. Despite Miami's 62.4 percent possession and eight corners, they managed only one shot on goal, recorded by Messi. The defeat was marked by tensions and a physical altercation between players as the match concluded.
Why It's Important?
The Seattle Sounders' victory in the Leagues Cup final underscores their dominance in MLS, adding a ninth trophy to their collection. This win highlights Seattle's consistent performance and ability to secure victories in high-stakes matches. For Inter Miami, the loss is significant as it reflects challenges in converting possession into goals, despite having star player Lionel Messi. The outcome affects Miami's standing in international competitions, although their runner-up finish guarantees a spot in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup group stage. The match's result also impacts fan expectations and team morale, as Miami supporters were disappointed by the outcome.
What's Next?
Inter Miami will focus on preparing for their upcoming match against Charlotte FC on September 13, aiming to recover from the Leagues Cup final loss. The team will likely analyze their performance to improve goal-scoring opportunities and capitalize on possession. Seattle Sounders, on the other hand, will continue to build on their success, leveraging their victory to boost team confidence and fan support. Both teams may address the physical altercation that occurred during the match, ensuring sportsmanship and discipline in future games.