"The victory completes a dramatic turnaround for a club that was languishing in the MLS basement when the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner arrived in Miami as the biggest signing in MLS history in July 2023. It was the 44th title of Messi's career and third with Miami, having helped the team to the Leagues Cup in 2023 and Supporters' Shield in 2024. MLS Cup, though, is the biggest trophy so far for a club that launched with the backing of David Beckham in 2020."
"Held at a packed Chase Stadium in South Florida, the home side took an early lead thanks to an own-goal scored by Vancouver's Édier Ocampo in the eight minute. Forced by a shot from Miami's Tadeo Allende, the ball deflected off Ocampo and past Whitecaps goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka. Despite the instant advantage for Miami, and some scrappy plays that led to regaining possession, the Whitecaps then gradually took charge in the remainder of the first half."
Inter Miami CF defeated the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 to win the club's first MLS Cup. Lionel Messi provided two assists and claimed his 44th career title and third with Miami. An early own-goal by Vancouver's Édier Ocampo in the eighth minute put Miami ahead after a shot from Tadeo Allende deflected past Yohei Takaoka. Vancouver pressed for control, with Thomas Müller orchestrating chances and Ali Ahmed equalizing in the 60th minute via a shot that took a late bounce past Miami goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo. The victory capped a turnaround since Messi's July 2023 arrival and followed Miami's earlier Leagues Cup and Supporters' Shield successes.
Read at ESPN.com
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