Inter Miami claimed their first Campeones Cup title on Wednesday, defeating Mexican champions Cruz Azul 2-0 as Lionel Messi reached another milestone with the MLS club.
The victory was secured by goals from Messi and Casemiro, with the Argentine scoring his 100th goal for Miami before later supplying the assist for the second goal.
The triumph also handed the 39-year-old his first trophy of the year, following Argentina’s defeat by Spain in the 2026 World Cup final two months ago.
Messi opened the scoring in the 24th minute in unusual fashion. Luis Suarez delivered a cross from the byline and the 5-foot-7 forward rose above Willer Ditta to direct a diving header into the net.
Miami came close to extending their advantage before the interval. Messi sent a cross-field pass to Suarez, who created an opportunity for German Berterame, but his attempted chip was cleared off the line.
Messi appeared to have scored again early in the second half after running onto a Suarez through ball and finishing against the post, only for the effort to be ruled offside.
Cruz Azul missed a major opportunity to draw level in the 67th minute when substitute Gabriel Fernandez’s header struck the post. Casemiro then blocked the follow-up effort.
The Brazilian midfielder eventually got on the scoresheet himself in the 81st minute, heading Messi’s corner low towards the far post to complete the 2-0 victory.
Goalkeeper Dayne St Clair also played a key role, making an early save from Jose Paradela and later denying Cruz Azul from a free kick as Miami protected their lead.
After the match, Casemiro praised Messi and said his continued performances should be appreciated while he remains at the top level.
Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham also backed Messi in the Ballon d’Or discussion, saying the veteran deserved to be considered after another high-level season.
The trophy was particularly significant for new Miami coach Cristian “Kily” Gonzalez, who took charge for the first time. The Argentine was appointed last month but only began training with the squad this week because of visa delays.
The Campeones Cup pits the previous MLS Cup winner against Mexico’s Campeon de Campeones champion. Wednesday’s match was the eighth edition and was hosted by the MLS representative.
Miami ended a run of three consecutive victories by Mexican clubs in the competition. Cruz Azul, meanwhile, remain without a Campeones Cup title after also losing the 2021 final.
