Inter Miami won their first title in 2026 after overcoming Cruz Azul with a score of 2-0 in the Campeones Cup match held on the morning of September 17 (Vietnam time).
Campeones Cup is a match between the US MLS Cup champion and the Mexican Liga MX champion. In the confrontation with Cruz Azul, Lionel Messi continued to be a prominent factor in the Inter Miami squad.
In the 24th minute, Luis Suarez made an accurate cross from the wing, creating conditions for Messi to rush in and head in a diving position, putting Inter Miami ahead 1-0.
The goal helped Messi's team have an early advantage in the match. After scoring the opening goal, Inter Miami proactively maintained a solid game and limited gaps in front of the goal.
This was one of the first matches under coach Kily Gonzalez. Inter Miami was better organized in defense with the return of Falcon, while Casemiro continued to be used in the center-back position.
Cruz Azul created some pressure situations but could not find an equalizer. In the 80th minute, Inter Miami had the second goal to decide the match. Casemiro scored, sealing a 2-0 victory for the MLS representative.
This victory helped Inter Miami end their recent unstable streak and win their first title in 2026.
For Messi, this is the 49th title in his career. The Argentine striker continues to maintain remarkable scoring efficiency in Inter Miami colors.
The goal against Cruz Azul also helped Messi reach the milestone of 100 goals for Inter Miami. According to published statistics, he has increased his total career goals to 929 goals.
In the race towards the milestone of 1,000 goals, Cristiano Ronaldo currently has 979 goals. The gap between the two stars is 50 goals. Ronaldo has not scored in Al Nassr's last two matches against Al Khaleej and Al Ain FC.
