Inter Miami finally lifted its maiden MLS Cup on Saturday night, with Lionel Messi once again at the centre of the celebration. The Argentine icon orchestrated
a 3-1 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps at a packed Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, showcasing the brilliance that has defined his storied career.
Miami struck early when a defensive mix-up forced Vancouver's Edier Ocampo to put the ball into his own net just eight minutes into the final. However, the early breakthrough did not deter the Canadian side. Led by veteran German forward Thomas MÜller, Vancouver gradually grew into the contest and eventually levelled the score through Ali Ahmed shortly after halftime.
Just moments later, the momentum could have completely shifted. Emmanuel Sabbi came agonisingly close to giving Vancouver the advantage, striking both posts in a dramatic sequence that left Miami relieved and still level. That reprieve proved crucial.
As Vancouver continued to press, Messi capitalised on a costly mistake by midfielder Andres Cubas. The Inter Miami captain pounced, drove forward, and released Rodrigo De Paul, who applied a crisp finish to restore Miami's lead.
In added time, Messi once again dictated the moment, slipping a precise ball through to Tadeo Allende, whose composed effort sealed the win and unleashed celebrations across the stadium.
The triumph represents not only a historic title for a club founded in 2020 but also a significant milestone for co-owner David Beckham, who has long envisioned Miami becoming a force in American soccer.
"There was a lot of sleepless nights, but I always believed," Beckham said after the match. "I always believed in bringing the team here, and when I found the right partners I knew anything was possible. We always promised our fans that we would bring success, and bring the best players, and today we've achieved that. "
The night also carried emotional weight, marking the final professional appearance for Spanish trio Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, key figures in Miami's resurgence.
With silverware secured and Messi leading a new era of ambition, Inter Miami's MLS legacy may just be getting started.
