Inter Miami defeated Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 in the 2025 MLS Cup final, securing their first title in the U.S. league. Lionel Messi, with two key assists, was pivotal in the win and received the playoff MVP award. The victory marks Messi's third title with the Florida club.
The match took place on December 6, 2025, at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, before a packed crowd. Inter Miami opened the scoring in the 8th minute of the first half with an own goal by Vancouver's defender Edier Ocampo. In the second half, Ali Ahmed equalized at the 15th minute for the Canadians, but Rodrigo De Paul made it 2-1 at the 26th minute with an assist from Lionel Messi. Tadeo Allende sealed the 3-1 at the 54th minute, again assisted by Messi.
This victory marks Inter Miami's first MLS championship, founded in 2018, and the first for Argentine coach Javier Mascherano in his debut season as head coach. Messi, the team captain, boosted his personal trophy cabinet: sources report 47 titles in total, though some indicate 46, including three with the Herons (Leagues Cup 2023, Supporter's Shield 2024, and MLS Cup 2025). The game was also the last of the careers of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets.
After the final whistle, Messi lifted the trophy with an emotional gesture alongside his teammates. In statements, the Argentine star said: “We rose to the occasion.” He celebrated with his family, Antonela Roccuzzo and his children, in the stands. Rodrigo De Paul, goal scorer, hugged his partner Tini Stoessel in the crowd. President Javier Milei shared a photo of Messi on social media, congratulating him on the historic achievement.
Mascherano, emotional, revealed the secret to his success: a united group and constant work, recalling his difficult beginnings as a coach.
