Messi inspires Inter Miami to first-ever MLS Cup title | OneFootball

Lionel Messi provided two assists as Inter Miami beat the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 at Chase Stadium to win the MLS Cup for the first time in the club’s history - an historic moment for the David Beckham-owned side.

Miami struck early, taking the lead after eight minutes when Edier Ocampo turned Tadeo Allende’s cross into his own net.

Vancouver grew into the game late in the first half, with Rocco Ríos denying Emmanuel Sabbi from close range.

The Whitecaps came out strong after the break and equalised on the hour as Ali Ahmed’s scuffed shot squeezed under Ríos’ arm. Sabbi nearly put them ahead moments later, hitting both posts before his rebound was deflected onto the woodwork again.

But Vancouver’s resurgence lasted only 11 minutes. Messi slipped a perfectly weighted pass to Rodrigo De Paul, who finished calmly across goal to restore Miami’s advantage.

With the visitors chasing a late equaliser, Miami struck on the counter once more - Messi cushioning a high ball before flicking it through for Allende to slot through Yohei Takaoka’s legs.

The victory delivers Inter Miami their first MLS Cup, capping a landmark night for a club still in its early years.