Lionel Messi added yet another accolade to his illustrious career on Saturday, guiding Inter Miami CF to a 3-1 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup final. This victory marked Inter Miami’s first-ever MLS Cup triumph and placed Messi among the rare players who have lifted both the FIFA World Cup and MLS Cup trophies. Several of Messi’s teammates also join him in this elite group, highlighting a remarkable mix of international and domestic success.
Sergio Busquets: From World Cup Glory to MLS Champion
Sergio Busquets, a midfield maestro, won the FIFA World Cup with Spain in 2010 in South Africa. At just 21, he played a pivotal role alongside Xavi and Xabi Alonso, helping Spain lift the trophy in a golden era of Spanish football. Fast forward to 2025, Busquets added another prestigious title to his career, winning the MLS Cup with Inter Miami. Now 37, he has announced that he will retire once Inter Miami’s championship celebrations conclude, ending a career filled with trophies at both the international and club levels.
Rodrigo De Paul: Argentina Star Shines in Miami
Rodrigo De Paul became another World Cup winner to claim the MLS Cup after joining Inter Miami in a surprise move during the summer transfer window. The 31-year-old midfielder played a vital role for Argentina in their 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar, clocking 102 minutes in the final against France. In the 2025 MLS Cup final, De Paul showcased his clutch ability once again, scoring the go-ahead goal in the 71st minute to secure Miami’s historic victory, avoiding extra time and demonstrating why he’s a key figure in Messi’s squad.
Lionel Messi: Legacy Sealed in Miami
After three seasons in Major League Soccer, Lionel Messi finally delivered silverware to Miami, adding the MLS Cup to his extensive trophy cabinet. While it took him longer to achieve World Cup glory, Messi’s international career is now complete. He debuted at the 2006 World Cup at 18 and endured several heartbreaks, most notably the 2014 final loss to Germany. Messi finally secured his defining World Cup triumph in 2022, scoring twice in the final, and has now cemented his status as one of football’s most decorated players, achieving success at both the global and domestic levels.
