The Argentine legend lifts the club's first league trophy
Two assists in historic final: Messi inspires Inter Miami to first MLS title
Inter Miami clinched the MLS title for the first time in the club's history after beating Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 in the final on Saturday night at Lockhart Stadium.
Advertising
Lionel Messi played the full 90 minutes, providing two assists, and the Miami project achieved its long-awaited breakthrough moment.
How the final went
Inter Miami took the lead after just eight minutes when Vancouver defender Adier Ocampo turned the ball into his own net. The Canadian team found a lifeline in the 60th minute: Ali Ahmed equalized after a well-thought-out move.
But Miami responded with authority.
-
71' — 2-1: Messi's precise pass helps Rodrigo De Paul, who sends the ball into the bottom corner.
-
96' – 3-1: Messi made the final pass again, finding Tadeo Allende to seal the title deep into stoppage time.
Speaking to Eurosport, Messi reflected on the significance of Inter Miami winning their first ever MLS title:
“This is a special and emotional moment for us and for the people of Miami. This was our real goal – to reach the top of the league. Thankfully, we achieved this.”
He added:
“Playing at home made it even more fun for the fans. We have to enjoy this moment.”
Advertising
Farewell to Busquets and Alba
The match marked the final professional appearances of Messi's long-time teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, who will both retire at the end of the season.
Messi paid a heartfelt tribute:
“We came here together from the beginning. Winning this title together was our goal. I'm so glad they left like that… celebrating the championship. They're my best friends. I'm grateful to have shared almost my entire career with them.”
Historical milestone for Messi and MLS
This achievement opens another chapter in Messi's illustrious career. After winning league titles in Spain (Barcelona) and France (PSG), he now lifts the national title in the United States.
Messi moved to Inter Miami in the summer of 2023, and under his influence, leadership and creativity, the club grew from new expansion team to MLS champions.
