This victory helped Inter Miami enter the US No. 1 football championship for the first time. Lionel Messi continues to play the central role when assisting both decisive goals.
Before the final, Vancouver were considered a "trailer" for Inter Miami when they had won against their opponents in two semi-finals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. The Canadian representative also took the initiative, controlling the midfield and creating a significant number of opportunities in the first half.
However, Inter Miami opened the scoring with a quick transition. In the 8th minute, Messi participated in organizing an attack before the ball was taken to Tadeo Allende's position. Allende's cross hit defender Vancouver's foot and changed direction into the net.
Vancouver maintained continuous pressure afterwards, forcing goalkeeper Rios Novo to save many times. The visitors' efforts were rewarded in the 60th minute when Ali Ahmed equalized 1-1 after the ball bounced off the post. The Canadian team almost took the lead in a chaotic match immediately afterwards, when Emmanuel Sabbi's shot consecutively hit the two posts.
In a downward situation, Inter Miami took advantage of the shining moments of the stars. In the 71st minute, Messi led the ball and then accurately passed for Rodrigo De Paul to run down to score to increase the score to 2-1. From there, the home team adjusted the tempo, slowed down the game and narrowed down the space to limit down down on Vancouver.
In the 90+6 minute of injury time, Inter Miami closed the deal to reduce the victory to 3-1. Messi continued to leave his mark with a pass opening up an opportunity for Allende to set the score.
The 2025 MLS Cup title helps Inter Miami complete their three titles after winning the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters' Shield. For the Argentine superstar, this title helps him complete the collection of titles at the club level and increase the total to 48, continuing to hold the record for the most successful player in the history of world football.
