Lionel Messi added to his impressive career achievements on Saturday by providing two assists in Inter Miami’s 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps to secure their first MLS Cup title. Messi, who was named the MLS Cup MVP, assisted Rodrigo de Paul in the 71st minute and Tadeo Allende in stoppage time.
The 38-year-old Ballon d’Or winner concluded the playoffs with a record-breaking 15 goal contributions (six goals, nine assists) across six playoff matches, setting a new MLS record for goal contributions in a single season.
After the match, Messi expressed his satisfaction with the team’s journey to becoming MLS champions, highlighting their commitment and effort throughout the season. He emphasized the significance of winning the MLS title as one of their primary goals for the year.
Messi’s exceptional performance, with 29 goals and 19 assists, placed him just one goal contribution short of the league record set by Carlos Vela in 2019. He is also a strong contender to become the first back-to-back MVP in MLS history.
Inter Miami’s coach, Javier Mascherano, praised Messi’s season and expressed his happiness for the player’s significant achievement in winning the MLS Cup, emphasizing Messi’s determination to succeed in the competition.