Messi and Beckham Guide Inter Miami to Historic First MLS Cup

David Beckham and Lionel Messi finally achieved their long-awaited goal on Saturday night as Inter Miami captured the MLS title with a 3–1 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps. The victory came on a celebratory evening in Florida, where Beckham was joined by wife Victoria and sons Romeo and Cruz, though Brooklyn was noticeably absent.

The triumph marks the pinnacle of Beckham’s 12-year mission since retiring in 2013, when his MLS contract granted him the chance to launch a franchise at a reduced fee. After choosing Miami, it took until 2018 for the club to be officially established in partnership with Jorge and Jose Mas, with the team eventually beginning play in 2020. Messi arrived midway through the 2023 campaign and has been central to the club’s rise.

Messi created the decisive moment in the 72nd minute, threading a precise pass to Rodrigo De Paul, who finished confidently before celebrating with the Argentine captain. Inter Miami fans erupted as stoppage time approached, and Tadeo Allende later added a third from another Messi assist.

The win secures Miami’s first MLS championship and extends Messi’s trophy record, while veterans Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba bow out as champions. With a new stadium opening next season, Miami now look toward defending their title.

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