FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – This is why Lionel Messi came to MLS.

Put all the pageantry, the noise, the marketing, the money aside. It was about winning MLS Cup presented by Audi and lifting the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy. Then, about walking around the back of the stage and lifting silverware over his head as fireworks shot off and confetti blanketed the field.

Saturday at Chase Stadium was a crowning moment for Messi, who powered Inter Miami CF to a 3-1 win over Vancouver Whitecaps FC at Chase Stadium. He was named MLS Cup MVP presented by Audi for his efforts, finishing with two assists and helping create their opener.

Messi arrived in MLS in July 2023. He and his teammates lifted Leagues Cup , but ran out of steam in their quest to make the playoffs. In 2024, Miami put togeth

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