Messi helps Miami claim MLS Cup

Inter Miami secured their first MLS Cup crown on Saturday, beating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1 at Chase Stadium as Rodrigo De Paul and Tadeo Allende struck late from a pair of Lionel Messi assists.

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Despite Thomas Mueller driving a Vancouver side that controlled long stretches and created the better chances, the final ultimately swung on the Argentine’s influence, as he secured his first MLS league title and capped his finest season on American soil.

“This was one of our main goals,” Messi, who was named MVP, said.

“Last year we finished first in the league and unfortunately we were knocked out in the first round. The MLS was the ultimate prize. The team put in a tremendous effort and rose to the occasion,” the 38-year-old added.