Lionel Messi and Thomas Müller strolled into the final, but the semifinals still left us plenty to unpack - including fresh questions about Hirving ‘Chucky’ Lozano’s future in San Diego.
U.S. international Brian White sent a timely reminder of his quality, powering the Vancouver Whitecaps to their first MLS Cup final with a first-half brace. His early impact guided a commanding 3-1 win over San Diego FC, a match effectively settled before halftime as Jesper Sørensen’s side overwhelmed Mikey Varas’ team and added an own goal via Pablo Sisniega.
Inter Miami crushed New York City FC 5-1 to win the Eastern Conference title and reach the first MLS Cup final in club history. After the match, manager Javier Mascherano praised the team’s unity, calling them an “unbreakable group” and crediting the players for believing in the project. The Herons now await the Western Conference champion.