Football icon Lionel Messi has added yet another historic milestone to his legendary career, guiding Inter Miami CF to a 2-0 victory over Mexican powerhouse Cruz Azul to claim the 2026 Michelob ULTRA Campeones Cup at Nu Stadium.
The Argentine playmaker broke the deadlock in the 24th minute, converting a brilliant header assisted by his longtime teammate Luis Suárez. The goal marked a major personal milestone for Messi, representing his 100th goal contribution since joining the MLS franchise. Messi then turned provider later in the match, delivering a precise assist to midfielder Casemiro, who sealed the victory with Inter Miami’s second goal of the night.
Inter Miami’s Golden Era Continues
With this latest triumph, Inter Miami has successfully secured at least one piece of silverware in four consecutive seasons maintaining a flawless trophy-winning run in every campaign since Messi’s arrival midway through 2023. The prestigious Campeones Cup is contested annually between the reigning MLS champion and the winner of Mexico’s Liga MX Campeón de Campeones.
The victory marks the first Campeones Cup title in Inter Miami’s history and their fourth major trophy since the club underwent its historic transformation. The club’s rapidly expanding trophy cabinet now features:
- 2023: Leagues Cup
- 2024: Supporters’ Shield
- 2025: MLS Cup
- 2026: Campeones Cup
An Unparalleled Trophy Haul
Messi’s 48th career title further cements his status as the most decorated player in football history. His extraordinary trophy collection spans some of the world’s most competitive stages, including ten La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League crowns with FC Barcelona, league titles with Paris Saint-Germain, and a historic international run with Argentina that includes the 2022 FIFA World Cup and back-to-back Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024.
As Inter Miami continues to establish itself as a dominant force in North American soccer, Messi’s relentless drive for success shows no signs of slowing down.