Lionel Messi named MVP as he leads Inter Miami to first-ever MLS Cup title

Lionel Messi reaffirmed his status as arguably the greatest footballer of all time, steering Inter Miami to its first-ever Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup title with a 3–1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps at Chase Stadium in South Florida on Sunday, December 7 (Philippine Standard Time).

Inter Miami capitalized early after an Edier Ocampo own goal, with Rodrigo De Paul and Tadeo Allende adding strikes of their own. But the night belonged to Messi, who delivered two brilliant assists and orchestrated the attack throughout. The championship completes a remarkable turnaround for a club that sat at the bottom of the MLS standings before Messi’s arrival in July 2023.

The Argentine icon was named MLS Cup Most Valuable Player (MVP), securing the third major trophy of his Inter Miami career following the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield. The MLS Cup stands as the club’s most significant achievement since its launch under co-owner and Manchester United legend David Beckham in 2020.

Lionel Messi lifts the MLS Cup for Inter Miami 🥳

(via @MLS)pic.twitter.com/pjWbDSo4C8

— B/R Football (@brfootball) December 6, 2025

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“A beautiful, emotional moment for us, for the people of Miami, to be able to achieve the MLS objective,” Messi said after the match. “It’s a very new club. We were lucky enough to win a title before, but this was the real objective—to win MLS and be at the top of the American league. We were fortunate to play at home, and it’s a huge joy for the people.”

Messi also set another MLS milestone, recording 15 goal contributions in the MLS Cup playoffs—the most in a single postseason in league history.

Beckham, who helped lure Messi to Miami, praised the superstar’s relentless competitive spirit.

“It’s been an incredible journey,” Beckham said. “He’s not just here to enjoy living in Miami. His family loves it, but he came here to win—and that’s what Leo is all about. His dedication to his teammates, to the city, to the club… Leo is a winner. It’s as simple as that.”

The match also marked the final appearance of Sergio Busquets, who bid farewell to professional football alongside longtime friend and former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba, who also announced his retirement after the game.

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