Dec 6, 2025 — MLS Cup Final
⚔️ Pre-Match — The Biggest Stage of the Season
Inter Miami entered the MLS Cup Final chasing their first championship, powered by a superstar core and elite form. Vancouver arrived as the underdog with one of the best seasons in club history, hoping to shock the world and finish their breakout campaign with a trophy. Miami leaned on experience. Vancouver leaned on momentum. Everything was on the line.
🔥 First Half — Miami Strikes Early
The final exploded almost immediately. In the 8th minute, Miami created danger down the flank, sending in a cross that deflected off Vancouver’s defender and into the net for an own goal. Miami jumped to a 1–0 lead before Vancouver even settled.
To their credit, the Whitecaps didn’t fold — they tightened up defensively, built possession, and created half-chances as the half wore on. But Miami’s shape held strong, and the early mistake remained the difference heading into halftime.
⚡ Second Half — Vancouver Levels the Match
Vancouver came out energized and finally broke through around the 60th minute. A slick sequence opened space, and Ali Ahmed buried the equalizer to make it 1–1. The momentum swung immediately — Vancouver looked confident, composed, and ready to push Miami into deep waters.
But championship games turn on tiny moments.
🔥 Late Game — Messi Takes Over
In the 71st minute, Miami capitalized on a turnover. Lionel Messi picked up the ball in space, slipped a perfectly weighted pass to Rodrigo De Paul, and De Paul finished calmly into the corner. Miami reclaimed the lead, 2–1.
Vancouver pushed numbers forward in desperation, but Miami’s counters became more dangerous. In stoppage time, Messi orchestrated one more attack, threading another decisive ball to Tadeo Allende, who slotted home the third goal to seal the MLS Cup at 3–1.
🏁 Post-Match — Miami Makes History
Inter Miami lifted the MLS Cup for the first time in club history, powered by Messi’s two assists and a complete team performance in the biggest moments. Vancouver’s incredible season ended in heartbreak, but they proved they belong among MLS’s elite. Miami’s experience and precision simply shone when the pressure peaked.
