Inter Miami vs Vancouver: Messi conquers America, leads Herons to MLS Cup glory

Lionel Messi registered two assists as he inspired Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps to win the MLS Cup.

The dimunitive Argentine had led the Herons to success in the League Cup and Supporters Shield, but the MLS Cup remained elusive until today's triumph.

Inter Miami declared their intent early on, scoring in the 8th minute after a flowing move with Messi at the heart, producing a dangerous delivery into the box; a Vancouver defender, Edier Ocampo, attempted clearance diverted the ball into his own net to give Miami a 1–0 lead.

Vancouver refused to roll over. The Whitecaps grew into the game but had to wait until shortly after the hour mark when Ali Ahmed finished from close range to get their equaliser. That goal swung momentum and forced Miami to reframe their approach, opting to take the game to their rivals.

The tweak soon bore fruit, as it resulted in the restoration of their lead. From a midfield turnover Miami moved at pace; Lionel Messi carried play into a dangerous area, and Rodrigo De Paul ghosted into the box to finish clinically.

Miami then killed the contest in stoppage time: Messi again the provider, this time finding Tadeo Allende, who composed himself and slotted home in the 90+6′ to make it 3–1 and spark jubilant celebrations.

While Messi's impact will grab the headlines, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba's stories are equally powerful, as the match marked an end to an illustrious football career.