January 16, 2026
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Published by Aeyan Raza
December 7, 2025
Lionel Messi has done it again this time on American soil. Inter Miami lifted their first-ever MLS Cup after a dramatic 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps, sealing a night that will be remembered as a turning point for the club and the league.
A packed Chase Stadium turned pink on Saturday night as thousands of Inter Miami fans filled the stands, creating a carnival-like atmosphere. Only two sections 126 and 127 stood out, where more than 1,000 Vancouver Whitecaps supporters made their presence felt until the final whistle.
The MLS Cup final was anything but calm. The match saw a total of 45 fouls, underlining the tension and physical nature of the contest. Both teams fought hard, but Inter Miami showed composure when it mattered most.
Miami struck early and never truly looked back. Vancouver pushed aggressively, trying to disrupt Miami’s rhythm, but the home side controlled the key moments and capitalized on their chances to seal a convincing 3-1 win.
For Messi, who joined the club in July 2023, the victory was deeply personal.
“This is something we waited for,” Messi said after the match, calling the title a reward for belief, patience, and hard work.
Just a year ago, Inter Miami were near the bottom of Major League Soccer. Messi’s arrival changed everything.
The Argentine icon didn’t just bring goals he brought belief, global attention, and a winning mentality. Since his debut, Inter Miami have transformed from an underperforming side into one of the most talked-about clubs in world football.
Saturday’s win confirmed what many already suspected: Messi’s impact on MLS goes far beyond the pitch.
The historic night drew a crowd well beyond football fans. Celebrities including Marc Anthony, Steve Nash, Mauricio Pochettino, Jessica Alba, and Danny Ramirez were spotted in the stands, highlighting the event’s global appeal.
Inter Miami co-owners David Beckham and Jose Mas were visibly emotional as they joined the players during the trophy ceremony, embracing the squad as confetti filled the air.
The MLS Cup triumph marks the beginning of a new chapter for the club. Inter Miami are preparing to move into Miami Freedom Park, a state-of-the-art stadium expected to further boost the club’s growth and international profile.
For Major League Soccer, the moment is just as significant. Messi lifting the MLS Cup sends a powerful message: North American football has arrived on the global stage.
