Lionel Messi has added yet another prestigious trophy to his illustrious career, guiding Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory against the Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup final. This victory marks a significant milestone, as Messi and his teammates become the first players to secure both a World Cup and an MLS Cup during their careers.
The path to this triumph has been one filled with challenges for Messi and Inter Miami. Since his arrival in South Florida in the summer of 2023, just months after leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, the club’s primary goal has been to hoist the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy. When Messi joined, Miami was at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. Despite winning the inaugural Leagues Cup before even playing a regular season match, the team faced significant obstacles in qualifying for the MLS Cup Playoffs.
In the previous season, Inter Miami achieved a record haul of points, winning the Supporters Shield but suffered an unexpected early exit in the playoffs against Atlanta United. Challenges continued with early eliminations in both the Concacaf Champions Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup. The pressure mounted as the impending retirements of former Barcelona stars Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets loomed large.
Messi’s determination was evident throughout the postseason. He played a crucial role in both Miami goals during the final, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. After the Vancouver Whitecaps equalized early in the second half, Messi’s interception led to Miami regaining their lead, ultimately sealing their victory.
The financial dynamics of Major League Soccer (MLS) are often debated, with some owners reluctant to invest heavily in their teams. Historically, the Vancouver Whitecaps have been one of the league’s more frugal franchises. Had they managed to upset Miami, it would have reinforced the argument that spending does not guarantee success. However, Miami’s triumph, bolstered by significant investment, sends a clear message: financial commitment plays a critical role in achieving success in MLS.
Inter Miami stands out as the league’s highest spender, and this victory serves as proof of concept for other teams. Midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, another high-profile addition and a fellow World Cup champion, scored the decisive goal that secured the title for Miami.
Looking ahead, Messi is expected to defend his World Cup title with Argentina next summer when the 2026 FIFA World Cup takes place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. At nearly 39 years old, Messi’s participation will be closely watched, especially as he has already participated in five World Cups, holding the record for the most appearances in the tournament.
While the Vancouver Whitecaps fell short in the final, their remarkable season deserves recognition. The team, comprised largely of players overlooked by other clubs, came within striking distance of becoming only the second MLS team to win the Concacaf title this century. The signing of Thomas Müller, a German football legend, contributed to their success, including winning another Canadian Championship.
The Whitecaps’ season has elevated players like Sebastian Berhalter and Tristan Blackmon into contention for the United States’ 2026 World Cup roster. Their performance has garnered attention and respect in their city, enhancing their relevance in a league that continues to evolve.
As the MLS prepares for a busy season ahead, both Inter Miami and the league itself will face pivotal moments. Miami is set to debut their new stadium in the spring, while the league will pause for the World Cup in the summer. The 2026 season will also mark the last full season under the spring-to-fall format before transitioning to a fall-to-spring calendar for 2027-2028.
This victory for Inter Miami not only highlights Messi’s unparalleled talent but also underscores the importance of investment in sports. The implications of this win extend beyond the trophy, setting the stage for an exciting future in MLS.
