Get ready for a thrilling journey into the world of soccer! We're about to dive into a story that will make your heart race and your passion for the beautiful game ignite. The MLS Cup 2025 presented by Audi witnessed a historic moment as Inter Miami's trio, Sergio Busquets, Rodrigo De Paul, and Lionel Messi, etched their names into the record books.
In a thrilling 3-1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps FC at Chase Stadium, these three champions became the first players to achieve the remarkable feat of winning both the MLS Cup and the FIFA World Cup. De Paul and Messi, the dynamic duo from Argentina, captured the 2022 World Cup, while Busquets, the Spanish legend, lifted the 2010 World Cup trophy. It's no surprise that their individual brilliance and collective synergy were instrumental in Inter Miami's triumph.
Messi, the undisputed star, was named the MLS Cup 2025 MVP presented by Audi for his two-assist performance, including the crucial pass that led to De Paul's 71st-minute game-winning goal. This goal, created with the help of Messi and De Paul, was not their only contribution; they also assisted in the opening goal scored by Vancouver's Édier Ocampo. Meanwhile, Busquets, in his final professional match, played a full 90 minutes, capping off a legendary career.
But here's where it gets even more impressive: Busquets and Messi weren't just key to the MLS Cup victory. They also led Inter Miami to their first two titles, the Leagues Cup 2023 and the 2024 Supporters' Shield, with an MLS record-breaking 74 points in a single season. Busquets, with his 143 caps for Spain, is a true legend, and his leadership and vision on the field were evident in his 10 assists during the 2025 MLS season. De Paul, on loan from Atlético Madrid, formed an unbreakable partnership with Busquets and left his mark with a historic goal in the MLS Cup final.
And let's not forget Messi, the man who needs no introduction. With 26 World Cup appearances and five tournaments under his belt, he won the Golden Ball at Qatar 2022, showcasing his brilliance with 7 goals and 3 assists, including a brace in the final against France and Kylian Mbappé. In the 2025 MLS season, Messi set a new record with 15 goal contributions in the playoffs, following his MLS Golden Boot win with an impressive 29 goals and 19 assists. His combined 63 goal contributions across the regular season and playoffs are an unprecedented achievement, solidifying his status as a legend in the league.
Inter Miami's victory not only secured their place in history but also denied Vancouver's star, Thomas Müller, the chance to become the first MLS Cup-World Cup champion. Müller, a Bayern Munich icon, joined the Whitecaps in August and had previously won the 2014 World Cup with Germany against Messi's Argentina. As of the 2025 season, 19 World Cup champions have graced the MLS, each with their own remarkable stories.
So, here's a question for you: With the MLS Cup and World Cup titles now in their possession, do you think Busquets, De Paul, and Messi have reached the pinnacle of their careers, or is there still more glory to be achieved? Share your thoughts and let's discuss the future of these legendary players!
