Inter Miami, starring Lionel Messi, and Thomas Muller’s Vancouver Whitecaps have both clinched their Conference titles to set up a first-ever MLS Cup final appearance for both teams on Saturday, December 6.
Inter Miami secured the Eastern Conference crown with a dominant 5-1 victory over New York City FC at Chase Stadium.
Tadeo Allende was the hero, scoring a hat-trick, while Lionel Messi provided a crucial assist that restored Miami’s two-goal advantage, extending his MLS Cup play-off goal contribution record to 13.
Miami coach Javier Mascherano praised Messi, calling him “extraordinary” and noting that his assist “practically sealed the game.”
In the West, the Vancouver Whitecaps, led by Thomas Muller, defeated San Diego FC 3-1. Brian White scored a brace for Vancouver. Muller, who joined in August and has scored eight MLS goals, played 61 minutes.
The final will be hosted by Inter Miami. Despite the global star power, Muller downplayed the individual rivalry, stating: “It’s not about Messi against Thomas Muller, it’s Miami against the Whitecaps.”
