Lionel Messi led Inter Miami to a triumphant victory in the cup on Saturday night, cementing his status as the most decorated player in the history of the sport.
With a career spanning nearly two decades, Messi now boasts an official count of 44 titles. His initial taste of victory dates back to 2004.
Claiming the Leagues Cup, this achievement marks his inaugural success on American soil, a mere month following his arrival in South Florida.
In the previous year, Messi’s illustrious career reached new heights as he secured the World Cup after multiple attempts, guiding his team to victory over France in a gripping final.
Among his extensive collection of trophies are remarkable achievements: 10 La Liga titles, four Champions League triumphs, seven Copa Del Rey victories, eight Spanish Super Cups, three FIFA Club World Cups, three UEFA Super Cups, the FIFA World Cup, the Finalissima, the Copa America, an Olympic Gold, a U20 World Cup, two Ligue 1 titles, and a Trophée de Champions.
Inter Miami’s victorious finale has been reported by Goal.com.
With this recent win, Inter Miami has engraved the first chapter of success into their trophy archives. Mere weeks prior, this accomplishment might have seemed beyond reach, given their position as one of the less successful teams in MLS. The idea of them prevailing over every competitor en route to a championship? It appeared implausible.
But in a matter of weeks, a game-changing factor emerged: Lionel Messi.
True to form, Messi once again seized the spotlight as Inter Miami clashed with Nashville SC at Geodis Park. His stunning goal ignited the match, which eventually concluded 1-1 after regular play. The goal was a classic Messi maneuver: maneuvering within tight space, he unleashed a curling shot that left the opposing goalkeeper with no chance.
Although a scrappy goal allowed Nashville to stay in the contest, even as the match extended to a penalty shootout, Messi and his teammates held the upper hand. The shootout proved historic, with all 22 players taking turns at the spot. Messi, serving as Miami’s first shooter, naturally converted his shot. However, it wasn’t until Nashville SC goalkeeper Elliot Panicco’s shot was blocked by Drake Callendar that Miami could officially bask in their victory.
While various players contributed to the outcome, Messi remained the linchpin. Although the match had few defining moments, and Callendar emerged as the match’s hero, Messi once again played the decisive role. A new team, but a familiar outcome: Messi clutching a trophy in his hands.