Inter Miami CF has secured a historic place in its first-ever MLS Cup final after a commanding 5-1 victory over New York City FC. The decisive win, earned on Saturday, was powered by a Tadeo Allende hat-trick and a pivotal assist from Lionel Messi.
The team will host the championship game next Saturday at their home stadium in Fort Lauderdale. They will face the winner of the Western Conference final between San Diego FC and Vancouver Whitecaps.
While Lionel Messi did not add to his goal tally, his influence on the match was profound. The Argentine superstar delivered a critical assist for Miami’s third goal, scored by Mateo Silvetti. This moment of genius effectively ended New York’s comeback hopes.
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano was full of praise for his former teammate. “Leo has accustomed us to the extraordinary,” Mascherano stated. “He’s someone we’ll never see again. Today, he gave us peace of mind with an assist that only he can see. He practically sealed the game.”
. @InterMiamiCF Claim Their First Ever Eastern Conference Title. 🎉
They Have Advanced To Their First Ever MLS CUP Finals.👌#InterMiami pic.twitter.com/AzalQZBgFi
— Forum Reelz (@ForumReelz) November 30, 2025The victory marks another ruthless, high-scoring performance from Miami, following their 4-0 win over FC Cincinnati in the previous round.
Tadeo Allende was the standout performer, becoming the focal point of the attack. The 26-year-old Argentine forward opened the scoring in the 14th minute and added a superb headed goal for his second. New York City FC briefly rallied with a goal from Justin Haak and came close to an equalizer, forcing a fine save from Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo.
Read: Lionel Messi Leads Inter Miami to MLS Playoff Berth with 4-0 Win Over NYCFC
However, Miami responded instantly. A swift counter-attack involving Rodrigo De Paul and Jordi Alba culminated in Messi’s delicate pass to Silvetti, who rifled home for the crucial 3-1 lead. Telasco Segovia then added a fourth goal before Allende completed his hat-trick in the 89th minute, triggering wild celebrations.
The victory completes a remarkable turnaround for a team that struggled earlier in the season. Coach Mascherano attributed the success to the players’ collective spirit. “The real credit goes to the players who embraced where we wanted to go,” he said. “We strengthened as a group and reached the end of the season with a brotherhood within the team. We are a group, and the power of a group is unbreakable.”
