‘Do everything possible to beat Lionel Messi’ - Mexico star Obed Vargas put respect for Argentine GOAT on hold in Leagues Cup final clash between Seattle Sounders & Inter Miami

Promising midfielder Vargas lined up for the Seattle Sounders as they played host to Inter Miami in a contest that saw major silverware come up for grabs. The 20-year-old was left beaming with pride at the final whistle.

The Sounders claimed a resounding 3-0 victory over MLS rivals, with the deadlock broken inside 26 minutes before wrapping up a memorable triumph in the closing stages. Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi was kept surprisingly quiet throughout.

Tempers did boil over at the final whistle, as emotion spilled out for both teams, but Vargas was delighted to get his hands on a winners’ medal. He spoke to TUDN while draped in a Mexican flag.

Vargas said of lining up against all-time great Messi and denying the most decorated player in history another addition to his record-shattering trophy collection: “Messi is a great player, I admire and respect him a lot; but on the field he’s my rival and I had to do everything possible to beat him.”

The Sounders are due to come up against Messi again in a matter of weeks, with Inter Miami preparing to welcome Vargas and Co to Chase Stadium on September 16. They will have revenge in mind as attention now turns to the long-term pursuit of MLS Cup glory.