Inter Miami CF has made history, advancing to the MLS Cup final for the first time in club history after a stunning 5-1 victory over New York City FC at Chase Stadium on Saturday night. The decisive win was powered by Tadeo Allende, who netted a hat trick, cementing his status as one of the standout performers of the playoffs.

The victory not only earned Inter Miami the Eastern Conference Championship but also set the stage for the club to host MLS Cup, thanks to its higher placement in the overall MLS regular-season standings compared to the Western Conference champion Vancouver Whitecaps. Inter Miami finished the regular season third in the Eastern Conference with 65 points, while Vancouver earned 63 points after defeating San Diego FC 3-1 to claim the Western Conference title at Snapdragon Stadium.

Lionel Messi Lifts Eastern Conference Trophy

As captain Lionel Messi hoisted the Eastern Conference trophy, co-owner Jorge Mas addressed the fans, emphasizing the team’s “one more game” mindset. “This [trophy] is for you, Miami, our fans, ‘La Familia.’ The club made an amazing effort, and it was a great result,” Mas said. “But more importantly, this is one down, one to go. One more.”

Inter Miami will host the MLS Cup final against Vancouver Whitecaps next Saturday. The matchup promises to be a historic showdown as Miami seeks its first MLS Cup title in just a few years since the club’s formation.

Allende Leads the Charge

Tadeo Allende was the star of the night, scoring two goals within the first 23 minutes to give Miami a commanding lead. New York City FC attempted a comeback with a goal from Justin Haak just before halftime, but the Herons’ defense, led by goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo, quickly shut down any momentum from the visitors.

In the second half, Mateo Silvetti, who joined Inter Miami in August, extended the lead to 3-1 with a well-placed goal assisted by Messi. Ten minutes later, Telasco Segovia added another goal off the bench, putting the match beyond doubt. Allende, on loan from Celta de Vigo, was named the player of the game after scoring eight goals in the playoffs, including three multigoal performances that propelled Inter Miami to the final.

Road to the Final

Inter Miami’s journey to the MLS Cup final has been remarkable. The Herons overcame Nashville SC in the first round before defeating FC Cincinnati in the Eastern Conference semifinal. The club had previously struggled in the playoffs, failing to advance past the first round in 2024, 2022, and 2020. This historic win marks a significant milestone for the rapidly growing club.

Celebrations and Star-Studded Support

Saturday’s match drew not only passionate local fans but also notable celebrities, including tennis star Carlos Alcaraz and members of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team, who attended to witness Inter Miami’s historic achievement.

Coach Mascherano Reflects on Milestone

Head coach Javier Mascherano highlighted the importance of the win while keeping focus on the bigger prize. “In the final stretch of the season, which, as this tournament is structured, consists of two championships – one being the regular season and the other the playoffs – it’s great that this moment has arrived, reinforcing our conviction to continue along the same path,” Mascherano said. “Beyond today’s achievement, which will be remembered in the history of this club as conference champions, the most important thing, the main prize, is this trophy.”

With Inter Miami hosting MLS Cup for the first time, excitement in Miami is palpable. Fans are eagerly awaiting next Saturday’s final, hopeful that Messi, Allende, and the Herons can bring home the ultimate prize in Major League Soccer history.