Lionel Messi continues to defy limits in the United States. Inter Miami claimed the Champions Cup title after a dominant performance against Cruz Azul, with Leo reaching a historic 100 goals for the Herons. However, the glory was clouded by tension, as the Argentine captain clashed with officials and the MLS Commissioner, proving that even in victory, he demands excellence.

A Night of Records and Rivalries

No matter the stage, the script remains the same: Leo Messi arrives, decides the game, and lifts the trophy. But this time, the celebration was charged with an electrical tension that spilled over from the pitch to the podium.

According to reports from El Doce, Inter Miami were crowned Champions Cup winners at the Nu Stadium, defeating the Mexican side Cruz Azul 2-0. Messi was the undisputed protagonist, scoring a clinical header in the 24th minute and providing the crucial assist for Casemiro in the 81st minute to seal the victory.

🏆 The Golden Milestone

Achievement Statistic Context
Total Goals 100 Reached in 115 matches for Inter Miami
Titles Won 4 Leagues Cup '23, Supp. Shield '24, MLS Cup '25, Champions Cup '26
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Fury at the Referee

The atmosphere grew hostile early on. Messi reportedly could not contain his frustration with the decisions made by head referee Keylor Herrera. The captain was overheard stating that the officiating was "a disgrace" and that the referees are "horrible," reflecting a growing fatigue regarding officiating standards in the league.

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The "Cold War" with Garber

While the match was hot, the trophy ceremony was glacial. Leo reportedly had a tense exchange with Don Garber, the Commissioner of Major League Soccer (MLS). Following a comment from the executive, Messi’s response was sharp and dismissive: "Not with me." A clear message from the man who has become the face of North American soccer.

Understanding the Tension: Who is Don Garber?

For those unfamiliar with the MLS structure, Don Garber is the Commissioner—essentially the CEO of the entire league. The relationship between Messi and Garber has reportedly been strained since 2025, when the league suspended Messi and Jordi Alba for missing the All-Star Game without authorization.

Adding to the drama, Garber is scheduled to leave his post on December 31, 2026, to transition into the Presidency, with Larry Berg set to succeed him. It seems the final months of this administration will be anything but quiet.

Read Full Story at El Doce ↗

Do you think the MLS should do more to protect its stars from poor officiating, or has Messi become "untouchable" in his criticisms?