Messi shines again as Inter Miami reaches Leagues Cup final in Seattle
- Lionel Messi's outstanding performance included scoring two goals and providing an assist in the semifinal match.
- The Leagues Cup final will take place in Seattle, with expectations of setting new attendance records.
- The event raises important questions about the tournament format and its fairness to Liga MX teams.
On August 30, 2025, Lionel Messi led Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over Orlando City in the semifinals of the Leagues Cup. The match was held in Nashville, Tennessee, and Messi's exceptional performance included scoring two goals and providing an assist in the last 15 minutes of the game, solidifying Miami's place in the finals. The upcoming final is set to take place at Lumen Field in Seattle, a venue known for its impressive capacity and a picturesque backdrop as it prepares for future World Cup matches in 2026. With a crowd expected to surpass previous attendance records, there is significant anticipation surrounding this event. Seattle, with its vibrant soccer culture, is expected to showcase its love for the sport once again, especially with the famed Messi in attendance. The Leagues Cup, which features teams from Major League Soccer (MLS) and Liga MX, has faced its share of criticism regarding its format and scheduling. However, the undeniable draw of Messi, and the historic nature of the matchup, will likely overshadow these concerns for the moment. Messi’s participation in the tournament has already heightened its profile significantly, making it one of the most discussed events in soccer. The implications of the match extend beyond mere attendance records, as it poses questions about the future structure of the Leagues Cup. MLS and Liga MX are tasked with ensuring the tournament evolves in a way that balances competitiveness among teams from both leagues. The current format has often been cited as unfair to Liga MX clubs, and with the popularity of the Leagues Cup on the rise, it is crucial for the organizations to address these inherent issues in hopes of maintaining fan engagement. Notably, MLS's recent dominance in the tournament's early stages further complicates the dynamics within North American soccer. As soccer enthusiasts across the continent gear up for this championship game, it serves as a reminder of the growing excitement within the sport in the United States. However, the reality is that the Leagues Cup needs to address its format and scheduling challenges to sustain its momentum in upcoming editions. With Messi leading Inter Miami, there is hope that this final not only captivates audiences but also invigorates crucial discussions about improvement in the future of this tournament.