Messi Makes History, Scores 100th Inter Miami Goal In Campeones Cup Triumph

Lionel Messi marked a historic milestone on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, scoring his 100th goal for Inter Miami and providing an assist as the Major League Soccer club defeated Cruz Azul 2-0 to win the Campeones Cup for the first time.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the final was played at Nu Stadium in Miami, Florida, with Inter Miami facing the Mexican Liga MX champions in the eighth edition of the competition.

Cruz Azul created the first clear opportunity of the match, but Inter Miami goalkeeper Dayne St Clair kept out Jose Paradela’s effort at the near post.

Messi opened the scoring in the 24th minute with a rare headed goal. Luis Suarez delivered a cross from the byline, allowing the 39-year-old Argentine forward to rise above Willer Ditta and direct the ball into the net.

Cruz Azul increased the pressure after the break as they searched for an equaliser. The Mexican side came close in the 67th minute when substitute Gabriel Fernandez headed against the post, before Casemiro blocked the follow-up attempt to preserve Miami’s lead.

Messi appeared to have doubled the advantage shortly afterwards after racing onto a pass from Suarez and finding the post, but the effort was ruled out for offside.

Inter Miami eventually secured the victory in the 81st minute when Messi delivered a corner into the penalty area and Casemiro headed the ball into the far corner to make it 2-0.

St Clair was called into action again late in the game, producing another important save from a Paradela free kick as Inter Miami held on to secure the trophy.

The victory gave Messi his first trophy of 2026 and earned Inter Miami their maiden Campeones Cup title. It also provided new head coach Cristian “Kily” Gonzalez with a winning start after he only began working with the team during the week following visa-related delays.

Following the match, Casemiro praised Messi and reflected on the importance of appreciating the Argentine star while he remains active in football.

“We have to enjoy this because we don’t know how long we’ll have it,” Casemiro said.

He added that Messi’s contribution to football remained remarkable, saying the Argentine continued to demonstrate his quality both internationally and in Major League Soccer.

Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham also expressed his support for Messi’s Ballon d’Or candidacy, arguing that the veteran forward deserves serious consideration for the prestigious individual award.

“So he deserves to be considered for the Ballon d’Or. In my opinion, he should win it,” Beckham said.