Lionel Messi inspires Inter Miami to a 3-1 MLS Cup final win over Vancouver, providing two assists in a triumphant farewell for Alba and Busquets
FORT LAUDERDALE: Lionel Messi inspired Inter Miami to their first Major League Soccer Cup title with a 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps.
The Argentina superstar provided two assists and helped create another goal in front of a rapturous home crowd at Chase Stadium.
Messi, named the MLS Cup Most Valuable Player, said the triumph was a long-awaited moment for the team.
Miami took an early lead through an Edier Ocampo own goal before Ali Ahmed equalised for Vancouver in the 60th minute.
The Whitecaps almost took the lead moments later when Emmanuel Sabbi’s shot hit both posts.
Miami regained the lead after a costly mistake by Vancouver midfielder Andres Cubas, who was robbed by Messi.
Messi then skipped clear and released Rodrigo De Paul to score and put Miami 2-1 ahead.
The home side sealed victory in injury time when Messi played in Tadeo Allende for the third goal.
Whitecaps coach Jesper Sorensen said his team never recovered from conceding against the run of play.
“We made a few mistakes and they took advantage of them,” Sorensen said.
The victory marks the crowning achievement for Inter Miami since luring World Cup-winner Messi to the club in 2023.
Co-owner David Beckham said he always believed in bringing success and the best players to Miami.
The win also served as a triumphant farewell for Messi’s former Barcelona team-mates Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, who are retiring.
Messi said saying goodbye in the best way to two of football’s best players was a main objective. – AFP
