UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown, Lionel Messi led Inter Miami to a historic 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup Final held on July 15, 2023, at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This victory marks the franchise’s first championship, solidifying Messi’s impact on soccer in South Florida.
Messi, already a legend in the sport, showcased his brilliance by providing an assist in the 72nd minute to Rodrigo De Paul, threading a precise pass through a wall of defenders. De Paul’s goal sparked wild celebrations, with Messi leaping into his arms, encapsulating the joy of fans who wore his No. 10 jersey.
The atmosphere was electric as Inter Miami’s supporters, clad in pink, cheered passionately, marking a significant moment in a city known for its NFL, NBA, and MLB titles. South Florida has officially embraced soccer, thanks to Messi’s influence.
In the final moments of the match, Tadeo Allende sealed the victory with a goal in the sixth minute of stoppage time—another assist from Messi. This win makes Inter Miami the 16th franchise in MLS history to lift the trophy, and it highlights a remarkable trend of parity in the league, with five different teams claiming championships over the past five years.
The significance of this win extends beyond the trophy; it embodies Messi’s desire to leave a lasting legacy in the United States. Fans are expected to celebrate this milestone, reflecting on the journey since Messi joined the team two and a half years ago.
As the dust settles on this thrilling final, all eyes will be on how Inter Miami builds on this success and what the future holds for Messi and the team. Stay tuned for updates on the celebrations and potential next steps for the franchise in the coming days.
