MESSI SCORES 100TH INTER MIAMI GOAL IN CAMPEONES CUP WIN

Lionel Messi scored his 100th goal for Inter Miami as the club beat Cruz Azul 2-0 to win the Campeones Cup, taking his career trophy tally to 49 and making him the most decorated player in football history. Messi opened the scoring in the 24th minute, heading in a cross from Luis Suárez, before setting up Casemiro for an 81st-minute header that sealed the victory. According to independent Inter Miami reporter Franco Panizo, Messi approached MLS commissioner Don Garber twice after the trophy celebration and appeared animated while speaking to him, with Garber seen asking Messi something that Messi appeared to decline. The exchange followed reported tension between the two men. The win marks Inter Miami's fourth trophy since Messi joined the club.

Messi missed the MLS All-Star Game in both 2024 and 2025, the first time because of an ankle injury sustained at the Copa América and the second while resting after the World Cup final alongside his Argentina and Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul. His unapproved absence in 2025 led to a one-match suspension from the league. Garber has said the situation affected their relationship, stating "he's still mad at me," while adding "we're communicating a little more." Garber also said he believed Messi had directed frustration over MLS officiating towards him, saying "I'm not sure that he looks at me as the guy who picks the officials" but that "he's got to complain to somebody. I'll take it."

According to Sportskeeda, Messi has already surpassed Cristiano Ronaldo's tally of assists for Casemiro, reaching the mark in six matches played together compared with 122 for Ronaldo. Messi and Casemiro have played 11 matches together in total at Inter Miami. No further meetings between Messi and Garber have been confirmed.