Lionel Messi, Inter Miami defeat Vancouver to win first MLS Cup title

Lionel Messi, Inter Miami defeat Vancouver to win first MLS Cup titleThe Argentinian super star capped off his third Major League Soccer season with the 47th trophy of his career.Published On 7 Dec 2025Inter Miami secured their first Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup crown on Saturday, beating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3–1 at Chase Stadium as Rodrigo De Paul and Tadeo Allende struck late from a pair of Lionel Messi assists.Despite Thomas Mueller driving a Vancouver side that controlled long stretches and created the better chances, the final ultimately swung on the Argentinian’s influence, as he secured his first MLS league title and capped his finest season on United States soil.Recommended Stories list of 4 itemslist 1 of 4‘Thrown under the bus’: Salah’s future in doubt as he slams Liverpoollist 2 of 4Australia crush England, take 2-0 series lead in The Asheslist 3 of 4Mbappe compared with Ronaldo, as Frenchman closes on Madrid icon’s recordlist 4 of 4What’s the full match schedule of the FIFA World Cup 2026?end of list“This was one of our main goals,” Messi, who was named MVP, said.“Last year we finished first in the league and unfortunately we were knocked out in the first round. The MLS was the ultimate prize. The team put in a tremendous effort and rose to the occasion,” the 38-year-old added.Miami opened the scoring in the eighth minute when Messi slipped Allende into space and the winger’s low cross deflected off Vancouver defender Edier Ocampo and into his own net.Vancouver kept control of the ball after the break and finally made it count on the hour mark when Ali Ahmed drove into the box and fired a low shot that Rios Novo reached but could not keep out, the ball rolling over the line to bring the visitors level.Miami restored their lead in the 71st minute when Messi pounced on a loose Vancouver touch and slid the ball across the box for Rodrigo De Paul, who swept his finish past Yohei Takaoka to cap the move with trademark composure.The hosts sealed the title deep into stoppage time when Messi threaded a pass to Allende, prompting emotional scenes with Jordi Alba in tears as he and Sergio Busquets – longtime friends and former Barcelona teammates – closed out their final match.