Seattle Sounders Beat Messi’s Inter Miami to Win Leagues Cup

The Seattle Sounders produced a stunning performance to defeat Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami 3-0 and win the Leagues Cup on Sunday at Lumen Field.

In front of a record crowd of 69,314, the Sounders struck first through Osaze De Rosario, who headed in a cross from Alex Roldan in the 26th minute. De Rosario nearly scored earlier with a header that forced a save from Miami goalkeeper Oscar Ustari.

Inter Miami, who won the competition in 2023 during Messi’s first MLS season, struggled to break down Seattle’s determined defence. Jackson Ragen blocked Messi’s early attempts, while other key chances went begging as Rodrigo De Paul and Tadeo Allende failed to convert.

Seattle dug deep under pressure and doubled their lead when Roldan converted a late penalty in the 84th minute. Paul Rothrock then sealed the victory with a goal in the 89th minute, sparking wild celebrations inside the stadium.

The win gave Seattle their first Leagues Cup title and cemented their status as the only MLS team to have won every major North American trophy. The achievement was even more impressive considering Inter Miami’s star-studded squad and payroll, which far exceeds Seattle’s

See also: Premier League Classic: Liverpool vs Arsenal Preview

The final was not only memorable for Seattle’s triumph but also marred by a post-match brawl sparked by Inter Miami striker Luis Suárez.

At the final whistle, Suárez confronted Sounders midfielder Obed Vargas, which led to a series of scuffles between both teams. Footage appeared to show Suárez spitting toward a Sounders assistant coach, forcing officials to step in and calm the situation.

Despite the chaotic end, Seattle manager Brian Schmetzer praised his players’ resilience against a side filled with international stars. He highlighted how his team kept their composure under pressure, crediting their collective effort and discipline as the reason for victory.

Inter Miami created dangerous opportunities in the second half, including when Suárez set up Messi for a chance that the Argentine sent over the bar. Another missed opportunity came when Allende failed to finish from close range. Seattle, however, refused to crack and were rewarded for their defensive organisation.

The win guarantees Seattle direct entry into the round of 16 of the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup, where they will compete for a place in the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup.

Meanwhile, LA Galaxy secured third place in the Leagues Cup by beating Orlando City 2-1 in Los Angeles.

See also: Liverpool Eye Marc Guehi and Alexander Isak Deals to Boost Squad