Magic Lionel Messi Leads Inter Miami to Make History, Crowned First-Ever MLS Cup Champions

Inter Miami officially wrote a new chapter in their history. Under the spotlight of cameras and in an atmosphere full of euphoria in Florida, the club established since 2018 finally won its first MLS Cup.

David Beckham's club defeated the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 in the final match on Sunday, December 7, 2025, early morning WIB. Two assists from Lionel Messi proved decisive in a tightly contested final from the very first minute.

This victory is not just a trophy win, but also a confirmation that the Inter Miami project with Messi has truly succeeded. 

After winning the Supporters' Shield last season, the MLS Cup title now completes their dominance in North American soccer.

Miami Leads Thanks to Own Goal

The match started aggressively from the outset. Both teams were chasing their maiden title, and pressure was applied immediately from both sides. Miami was the first to gain an advantage.

In the 8th minute, a cross from striker Tadeo Allende was deflected by Vancouver defender Edier Ocampo into his own net.

That own goal allowed the Miami squad, fielding the senior trio of Messi, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets, to better control the game. However, there were no further goals before halftime.

Vancouver Stings, Mueller Leads the Fightback

Entering the second half, Vancouver, spearheaded by former German star Thomas Müller, appeared far more aggressive. Their movement was tidier and the frontline sharper.

In the 60th minute, that resurgence paid off. The equalizing goal came from an Ali Ahmed shot, set up by a Brian White pass.

With the score at 1-1, tension rose and the pace of the game increased. The MLS Cup final felt far from over.

Two Messi Assists Change Everything

As the match entered a difficult phase, Lionel Messi showed his class. In the 71st minute, the captain dispossessed an opponent and slid the ball to Rodrigo De Paul, who converted it into a goal. Inter Miami regained the lead 2-1.

Vancouver tried to respond, but in injury time, a combination from the three former Barcelona players ended their hopes.

Inter Miami's third goal started with a pass from Jordi Alba to Lionel Messi. La Pulga controlled the ball with his chest before laying it off to Tadeo Allende.

The latter coolly finished the chance, sealing a 3-1 scoreline in the 90+6th minute.

History Made, A Trophy Cementing Messi's Era in America

The title is historic for Inter Miami, being their first since the club's founding in 2018.

Not only that, the 2025 MLS Cup trophy complements last season's achievement when Miami won the Supporters' Shield, their first trophy in club history.

For Messi, this victory holds another meaning. With this additional title, Messi becomes a footballer who has won league championships with every team he has played for: Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Miami.

To date, Messi has collected a total of 48 trophies, including the 2022 World Cup, further cementing his status as one of the greatest players of all time.

Inter Miami is now more than just an ambitious project. They are MLS Cup champions, and Messi is at the heart of their grand story.