Messi Leads Inter Miami to Victory Over Vancouver, Secures MLS Crown in Dramatic Fashion
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – November 8, 2023 – Lionel Messi orchestrated a late surge for Inter Miami, securing a 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in a thrilling MLS match that also marked the final professional games for Sergio Busquets and Jordi alba. Despite a resilient performance from Vancouver, spearheaded by Thomas Müller, Messi proved decisive with a 71st-minute goal to make it 2-1 and a stoppage-time assist for Tadeo Allende (90th + 6th).
The match began with an early setback for Vancouver, as an own goal by Édier Ocampo in the 8th minute gave Miami the lead, following a key pass from Messi. Ali Ahmed leveled the score for Vancouver in the 60th minute, rewarding a period of strong play for the Canadian side.
Vancouver demonstrated significant attacking intent throughout the game, particularly in the first half, with Brian White missing a header in the 33rd minute and Emmanuel Sabbi denied by goalkeeper rocco Ríos Novo from close range in the 38th. Sabbi later experienced a remarkable, yet frustrating, sequence instantly after the second-half kickoff, hitting the post three times in quick succession.
“Not the start we wanted, but I think we’re playing better now, have our rhythm – we just need a breakthrough,” Whitecaps coach Jesper Sörensen commented at halftime, foreshadowing his team’s improved second-half performance.
However, Messi’s influence ultimately proved too strong. He won posession and delivered a precise pass to de paul for the go-ahead goal, and then capped off the victory with an assist in stoppage time.
The game also held emotional weight as it was the last professional appearance for Inter Miami teammates Busquets and Alba, former Barcelona colleagues of Messi. Despite Vancouver’s determined effort, led by veteran Müller’s direction on the field, Messi’s brilliance cemented Inter Miami’s win and underscored his impact on the MLS landscape.
(Source: ntv.de, sue/dpa)
