Lionel Messi’s place in soccer history was firmly established long before he joined Major League Soccer with Inter Miami. Having won the World Cup and numerous other accolades, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest players ever.
Although he had already achieved so much, he still desired the MLS Cup.
And he went out to claim it.
On Saturday, Messi led Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup final, marking the franchise’s first championship. This milestone came just two and a half years after Messi’s surprising move to South Florida.
He assisted the decisive goal in the 72nd minute with a perfect pass to Rodrigo de Paul, managing to maneuver the ball through a tight space in the Vancouver defense. De Paul skillfully placed it in the far corner, and moments later, Messi joyfully leaped into his arms.
As the final moments ticked away, fans in pink, many donning Messi’s No. 10 jersey, rose to their feet, cheering in celebration. South Florida has previously claimed championships in the NFL, NBA, Major League Baseball, and NHL.
Now, it’s also establishing itself as a soccer city, largely thanks to Messi. Tadeo Allende added to the score in the 6th minute of stoppage time, again with Messi’s assist, sealing the game at 3-1.
With this victory, Inter Miami becomes the 16th team to claim the MLS title in the league’s 30-year history. This trend continues a record in MLS where five different franchises have won the championship in the past five years, and eight have taken the title over the last nine seasons, with Columbus being the only team to achieve two championships in that time.
According to the Associated Press.
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Fan Take: Messi’s achievement with Inter Miami underscores not only his individual greatness but also the growing appeal of soccer in the U.S. This victory could inspire even more fans and players, elevating the sport’s status in American sports culture.
