November 30th 2025.
In the sunny state of Florida, a momentous event is about to take place. After waiting for over two years, soccer superstar Lionel Messi is on the verge of leading his team, Inter Miami, to their first ever MLS Cup victory. In a commanding 5-1 win over New York City FC in the Eastern Conference final, Messi can credit his fellow Argentine Tadeo Allende for setting up the victory. Allende's two first-half goals gave Inter Miami complete control, according to Goal.com.
Despite not being at his usual prolific best, Messi didn't need to be. His teammates rose to the occasion, especially Allende, who went on to score a hat-trick and match the MLS postseason record for most goals. The match began at Chase Stadium with NYCFC playing in the same style that had brought them success in the playoffs so far. However, Miami's attack came to life after just 10 minutes. Messi's pinpoint set piece found Jordi Alba at the far post, but NYCFC's goalkeeper Matt Freese was quick to react and keep out the header. But just four minutes later, Miami broke through.
Allende was on the receiving end of a perfectly placed pass inside the box and finished with a precise diagonal strike to give Miami a 1-0 lead. And he wasn't done yet. Alba spotted Allende's run and delivered an exquisite long ball over the top, which the forward expertly headed into the back of the net. With a comfortable 2-0 lead, Inter Miami seemed to be in complete control, but NYCFC pulled one back in the 37th minute through a set piece goal from Justin Haak.
But in the second half, Miami showed no mercy. Mateo Silvetti, who had a quiet first half, confidently struck the ball into the net from a Messi assist. It was the only goal contribution from the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner in the game. And then, Alba produced a moment of magic, setting up Telasco Segovia with a brilliant backheel, before Allende completed his hat-trick to restore Miami's four-goal advantage and seal their place in the MLS Cup.
With this victory, Inter Miami have earned the right to host the MLS Cup, beating out Vancouver Whitecaps and San Diego FC on total points. And as they prepare for the final, they can thank Messi, Allende, and the rest of the team for putting on a dominant performance and bringing them one step closer to lifting the coveted trophy.
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