Lionel Messi has secured his first MLS Cup, guiding Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps on March 15, 2024. This win marks a significant milestone for the franchise, which has now claimed its inaugural championship just 2.5 years after Messi joined the team. With this triumph, Messi adds another accolade to his illustrious career, which already includes a World Cup title and numerous trophies across his time in football.
Messi’s decisive contribution came in the 72nd minute when he assisted teammate Rodrigo De Paul, showcasing his extraordinary vision by threading a pass through a narrow gap in the Whitecaps’ defense. De Paul capitalized on the opportunity, sending the ball into the far corner of the net. The moment was celebrated enthusiastically by the pink-clad Inter Miami supporters, many of whom donned jerseys emblazoned with Messi’s No. 10.
Inter Miami’s journey to this championship is notable for the dramatic transformation since Messi’s arrival. The team was struggling at the bottom of the MLS standings when he joined midway through the 2023 season. Following his arrival, they surged in performance, ultimately leading to this championship victory.
As the match progressed, Tadeo Allende sealed the victory in the sixth minute of stoppage time, also benefiting from a Messi assist. This victory solidifies Inter Miami’s status, making it the 16th franchise in Major League Soccer’s 30-year history to win a title. The league has seen a remarkable trend of competitive balance, with five different teams winning championships in the past five years.
The MLS Cup victory is not only a personal triumph for Messi but also a culmination of a long journey for David Beckham, a key figure in Inter Miami’s ownership group. Beckham retired from professional football in 2013, and his MLS contract included provisions to start a franchise at a reduced cost. After years of effort and strategic partnerships with Miami businessmen Jorge Mas and Jose Mas, the team finally began play in 2020.
Messi’s latest trophy is his 47th overall, extending his record in men’s soccer. As he continues to perform at a high level, he remains a pivotal figure in MLS. Beckman remarked on Messi’s commitment: “He’s come here to win, and that’s really what Leo is all about. He wants to win. He’s got that dedication, the loyalty that he shows to his teammates, to the city, to the club. Leo is a winner.”
Inter Miami initially took the lead in the match with an own goal in the eighth minute. However, Vancouver’s Ali Ahmed equalized in the 60th minute, creating a tense atmosphere. The Whitecaps came close to taking the lead shortly thereafter, hitting both posts with a shot. Ultimately, Messi’s influence proved decisive as Inter Miami regained control and secured the championship.
As the final whistle blew, Messi celebrated with fans, raising his arms in triumph. This victory not only gives Inter Miami its first MLS Cup but also cements the team’s place in the hearts of fans in South Florida, a region increasingly embracing soccer as a major sport.
