Argentina's superstar Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates were feted by President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday in honor of their 2025 MLS Cup championship. Messi was at the forefront as Miami players, coach Javier Mascherano and team co-owner Jorge Mas flanked Trump, who opened proceedings with comments on military action in the Middle East. But he soon got down to the team's 2025 exploits and rememiniscences of Brazilian icon Pele's 1970s stint with the New York Cosmos and its electrifying effect on soccer in the United States.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-2026-risk-of-permanent-nerve-damage-aston-martin-drivers-alonson-and-stroll-won-t-be-completing-melbourne-gp-1772696224725">F1 | 'Risk of nerve damage': Aston Martin drivers won't be finishing AUS GP</a>"I shouldn't say this because I'm old, but I watched Pele play," Trump said. "I don't know, you (Messi) may be better than Pele. Pele was pretty good."The players came bearing gifts for Trump, including a No. 47 jersey from the team's signature pink kit, reflecting his status as the nation's 47th president.From Trump there were shout-outs to Miami's Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez, rising star Tadeo Allende, and Rodrigo De Paul -- and a subtle dig at former president Joe Biden."It's my distinct privilege to say what no American president has ever had the chance to say before: Welcome to the White House, Lionel," Trump said, an oblique reference to the fact Messi did not attend the ceremony when Biden awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January 2025."I've seen a lot of great players come into the world of sports," Trump said. "They come to the Yankees or they come to the Dodgers... and there's such a clamor."Everything's great, but they don't win. This guy won," he said with a gesture toward Messi."Leo, you came in and you won. There's a lot more pressure put on you than anyone would know because you're sort of expected to win," Trump added.Trump's rundown of Miami's 2025 achievements included not only their 3-1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup final but also their 2-1 victory over Portuguese side Porto in the Club World Cup, which marked the first time a North American team beat a European one in official competition.In accepting Trump's congratulations, Mas -- the son of Cuban immigrants -- said Miami's rise since its 2020 inaugural season was based on the philosophy that "if you work hard and you sacrifice and you dream, it can be possible."Inter Miami's global success is "not only because of Lionel Messi, but these men standing behind you have changed the culture of football in the United States of America forever," Mas said. "We can play with the big boys."

The players came bearing gifts for Trump, including a No. 47 jersey from the team's signature pink kit, reflecting his status as the nation's 47th president.

Argentina's superstar Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates were feted by President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday in honor of their 2025 MLS Cup championship. Messi was at the forefront as Miami players, coach Javier Mascherano and team co-owner Jorge Mas flanked Trump, who opened proceedings with comments on military action in the Middle East. But he soon got down to the team's 2025 exploits and rememiniscences of Brazilian icon Pele's 1970s stint with the New York Cosmos and its electrifying effect on soccer in the United States. Also Read - F1 | 'Risk of nerve damage': Aston Martin drivers won't be finishing AUS GP "I shouldn't say this because I'm old, but I watched Pele play," Trump said. "I don't know, you (Messi) may be better than Pele. Pele was pretty good." The players came bearing gifts for Trump, including a No. 47 jersey from the team's signature pink kit, reflecting his status as the nation's 47th president. From Trump there were shout-outs to Miami's Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez, rising star Tadeo Allende, and Rodrigo De Paul -- and a subtle dig at former president Joe Biden. "It's my distinct privilege to say what no American president has ever had the chance to say before: Welcome to the White House, Lionel," Trump said, an oblique reference to the fact Messi did not attend the ceremony when Biden awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January 2025. "I've seen a lot of great players come into the world of sports," Trump said. "They come to the Yankees or they come to the Dodgers... and there's such a clamor. "Everything's great, but they don't win. This guy won," he said with a gesture toward Messi. "Leo, you came in and you won. There's a lot more pressure put on you than anyone would know because you're sort of expected to win," Trump added. Trump's rundown of Miami's 2025 achievements included not only their 3-1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup final but also their 2-1 victory over Portuguese side Porto in the Club World Cup, which marked the first time a North American team beat a European one in official competition. In accepting Trump's congratulations, Mas -- the son of Cuban immigrants -- said Miami's rise since its 2020 inaugural season was based on the philosophy that "if you work hard and you sacrifice and you dream, it can be possible." Inter Miami's global success is "not only because of Lionel Messi, but these men standing behind you have changed the culture of football in the United States of America forever," Mas said. "We can play with the big boys."

The players came bearing gifts for Trump, including a No. 47 jersey from the team's signature pink kit, reflecting his status as the nation's 47th president.

US President Donald Trump hosts Messi, Inter Miami players at White House for winning 2025 MLS Cup championship

Lionel Messi inspired Inter Miami to their first ever MLS Cup title on Saturday (Dec 6), playing a starring role in a 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in Florida. Argentina superstar Messi provided assists for two goals and helped create another to spark wild celebrations before a rapturous home crowd at the Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale.&nbsp;"This is the the moment that I've been waiting for, and that we as a team have been waiting for," Messi, named MLS Cup Most Valuable Player, said afterwards.&nbsp;WATCH -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🎊 INTER MIAMI LIFT THE TROPHY 🎊<a href="https://twitter.com/InterMiamiCF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InterMiamiCF</a> // MLS Cup pres. by Audi <a href="https://t.co/IvRrsT5L9d">pic.twitter.com/IvRrsT5L9d</a>&mdash; Major League Soccer (@MLS) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLS/status/1997430197616812158?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aston-villa-end-arsenal-unbeaten-premier-league-streak-as-manchester-city-cut-gap-at-top-with-win-over-sunderland-1765075515412">Aston Villa end Arsenal’s unbeaten PL streak as City cut gap at top with win over Sunderland</a>&nbsp;Miami took the lead after an early Edier Ocampo own goal but were left reeling by Ali Ahmed's second half-equaliser for Vancouver. But Messi then laid on an assist for Argentina international team-mate Rodrigo De Paul to put Miami 2-1 up before supplying the pass for Tadeo Allende's injury time goal that sealed victory.&nbsp;Miami's first Major League Soccer crown provided glittering vindication for co-owner David Beckham, the former England and Manchester United star who had long dreamed of bringing success to Miami.&nbsp;"There was a lot of sleepless nights, but I always believed," Beckham said afterwards. "I always believed in bringing the team here, and when I found the right partners I knew anything was possible.&nbsp;"We always promised our fans that we would bring success, and bring the best players, and today we've achieved that."&nbsp;Vancouver -- spearheaded by German legend Thomas Mueller -- had looked the likelier victor after recovering from Ocampo's eighth minute own goal to level through Ali Ahmed in the 60th minute. The Whitecaps almost took the lead moments after the equaliser, with Emmanuel Sabbi's shot crashing off both posts in the 62nd minute as Miami escaped.<h3>Costly mistakes</h3>&nbsp;But with the Whitecaps in complete control, the Canadians were stunned when Miami regained the lead after a blunder by midfielder Andres Cubas. Cubas took too long in possession and was robbed by Messi, who skipped clear before releasing De Paul to provide the clinical finish.&nbsp;Vancouver never recovered from that hammer blow and Miami started the party in injury time when Messi played in Allende for the third to make it 3-1.&nbsp;Whitecaps coach Jesper Sorensen said his team had never recovered after falling behind to De Paul's goal against the run of play.&nbsp;"We made a few mistakes and they took advantage of them," Sorensen said. "We made a mistake -- the ball dropped for Messi and he made the pass to Rodrigo. A game is decided in a few moments, and when you play Miami, they have the players to take advantage of these moments."&nbsp;The win marks the crowning achievement of Inter Miami since the club -- which entered the league as an expansion club in 2020 -- successfully lured World Cup-winner Messi to Miami in 2023.&nbsp;Saturday's victory also heralded the end of an era for two key figures in Miami's rise to the top of Major League Soccer, with Messi's former Barcelona team-mates and Spanish internationals Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets heading into retirement.&nbsp;"That was one of the main objectives -- to say goodbye to two good friends that are now stepping into a new life in retirement," eight-time Ballon D'Or winner Messi said of Alba and Busquets' triumphant farewell.&nbsp;"This was very special for them and the whole team. We say goodbye in the best way to two of the best players in football's history."&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Messi has now 48 career titles, the most by any player in football history. 

Lionel Messi inspired Inter Miami to their first ever MLS Cup title on Saturday (Dec 6), playing a starring role in a 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in Florida. Argentina superstar Messi provided assists for two goals and helped create another to spark wild celebrations before a rapturous home crowd at the Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. "This is the the moment that I've been waiting for, and that we as a team have been waiting for," Messi, named MLS Cup Most Valuable Player, said afterwards. WATCH -

Messi has now 48 career titles, the most by any player in football history.&nbsp;

Messi becomes most decorated footballer with Miami’s maiden MLS Cup win - WATCH

Lionel Messi produced a vintage performance as Inter Miami stayed on course for their first MLS Cup final appearance with a 4-0 rout of FC Cincinnati on Sunday. Argentine superstar Messi scored once and provided the assists for all of Inter's other goals, with Tadeo Allende scoring twice and Mateo Silvetti adding the other to send Miami into next Saturday's Eastern Conference championship. Inter Miami will play host to New York City FC to decide a berth in the MLS Cup final after visiting City upset top seed Philadelphia 1-0 in the night's other match.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/badminton-legends-saina-nehwal-peter-gade-open-the-legends-vision-legacy-tour-india-1763905678300">Saina Nehwal, Peter Gade open The Legends’ Vision Legacy Tour India</a>Argentine forward Maxi Moralez scored the only goal in the 27th minute to advance New York City, the 2021 MLS Cup champions.Third-seeded Miami will head into next weekend's fixture brimming with confidence after laying on a performance of pace and precision to dispatch second seeds Cincinnati.Miami coach Javier Mascherano lavished praise on Messi and his teammates after a performance he described as near-perfection."I'm proud of how the team played on a very difficult pitch against a very difficult opponent," Mascherano said."The players showed incredible character and played a practically perfect match."It's an honor and a privilege not only to manage Leo but this group of players. We know what Leo is capable of; he proves it every weekend. Today, he did another incredible job off the ball, because we already know what he's capable of with it."A sold-out crowd of just over 26,000 had packed Cincinnati's TQL Stadium hoping to see the home side score an upset over Mascherano's star-studded Inter team.But Cincinnati were made to pay for failing to take their chances in a bright opening, with striker Kevin Denkey forcing a good save from Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo after 15 minutes.Miami took the lead moments later when Messi picked out Argentine teenager Silvetti -- who had started instead of veteran Luis Suarez -- with an incisive pass down the left flank.Silvetti duly returned the favor with a pinpoint cross into the area that Messi coolly nodded home to make it 1-0.Cincinnati squandered a chance to draw level in the 22nd minute when Venezuelan forward Ender Echenique burst into space but dragged his shot wide.Thereafter it was all Miami, and Messi might have made it 2-0 on 27 minutes, advancing into space but hooking his shot wide of the post.Inter's more incisive attacking play got its reward, though, on 57 minutes, when Messi found Silvetti on the edge of the area, where the Argentina under-20 international curled home to make it 2-0.As an increasingly desperate Cincinnati chased the game, more space opened up, and with Messi pulling the strings it was only a matter of time before Miami increased their lead.Messi threaded a pass to Allende to make it 3-0 on 62 minutes, and then sprang the offside trap once more on 74 minutes to set up Allende for the fourth.The winners of next Saturday's Eastern and Western Conference finals meet in the MLS Cup championship game on December 6.Vancouver will play in the West final against the winner of Monday's matchup between top-seed San Diego and Minnesota United.

Third-seeded Miami will head into next weekend's fixture brimming with confidence after laying on a performance of pace and precision to dispatch second seeds Cincinnati.

Lionel Messi produced a vintage performance as Inter Miami stayed on course for their first MLS Cup final appearance with a 4-0 rout of FC Cincinnati on Sunday. Argentine superstar Messi scored once and provided the assists for all of Inter's other goals, with Tadeo Allende scoring twice and Mateo Silvetti adding the other to send Miami into next Saturday's Eastern Conference championship. Inter Miami will play host to New York City FC to decide a berth in the MLS Cup final after visiting City upset top seed Philadelphia 1-0 in the night's other match. Also Read - Saina Nehwal, Peter Gade open The Legends’ Vision Legacy Tour India Argentine forward Maxi Moralez scored the only goal in the 27th minute to advance New York City, the 2021 MLS Cup champions. Third-seeded Miami will head into next weekend's fixture brimming with confidence after laying on a performance of pace and precision to dispatch second seeds Cincinnati. Miami coach Javier Mascherano lavished praise on Messi and his teammates after a performance he described as near-perfection. "I'm proud of how the team played on a very difficult pitch against a very difficult opponent," Mascherano said. "The players showed incredible character and played a practically perfect match. "It's an honor and a privilege not only to manage Leo but this group of players. We know what Leo is capable of; he proves it every weekend. Today, he did another incredible job off the ball, because we already know what he's capable of with it." A sold-out crowd of just over 26,000 had packed Cincinnati's TQL Stadium hoping to see the home side score an upset over Mascherano's star-studded Inter team. But Cincinnati were made to pay for failing to take their chances in a bright opening, with striker Kevin Denkey forcing a good save from Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo after 15 minutes. Miami took the lead moments later when Messi picked out Argentine teenager Silvetti -- who had started instead of veteran Luis Suarez -- with an incisive pass down the left flank. Silvetti duly returned the favor with a pinpoint cross into the area that Messi coolly nodded home to make it 1-0. Cincinnati squandered a chance to draw level in the 22nd minute when Venezuelan forward Ender Echenique burst into space but dragged his shot wide. Thereafter it was all Miami, and Messi might have made it 2-0 on 27 minutes, advancing into space but hooking his shot wide of the post. Inter's more incisive attacking play got its reward, though, on 57 minutes, when Messi found Silvetti on the edge of the area, where the Argentina under-20 international curled home to make it 2-0. As an increasingly desperate Cincinnati chased the game, more space opened up, and with Messi pulling the strings it was only a matter of time before Miami increased their lead. Messi threaded a pass to Allende to make it 3-0 on 62 minutes, and then sprang the offside trap once more on 74 minutes to set up Allende for the fourth. The winners of next Saturday's Eastern and Western Conference finals meet in the MLS Cup championship game on December 6. Vancouver will play in the West final against the winner of Monday's matchup between top-seed San Diego and Minnesota United.

Third-seeded Miami will head into next weekend's fixture brimming with confidence after laying on a performance of pace and precision to dispatch second seeds Cincinnati.

Messi keeps Inter Miami on course for maiden MLS Cup final with vintage performance vs Cincinnati

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi scored twice to lift Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over Nashville SC on Friday in the opening game of their MLS Cup round one playoff series.Tadeo Allende also scored for Inter, who took a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series, with game two in Nashville on November 1.&nbsp;Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi was presented with the Golden Boot award before the game after topping the regular-season scoring chart with 29 goals in 28 games.&nbsp;He wasted no time in demonstrating how he earned it, putting Miami up 1-0 with a diving header off a pass from Luis Suarez in the 19th minute.&nbsp;Sergio Busquets had gained control of the ball near the sideline and passed to Rodrigo De Paul.&nbsp;De Paul found a charging Messi, who handed off to Suarez on the right and pressed forward to connect when Suarez fed it back.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874">From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</a>&nbsp;Allende's header from a pass by Ian Fray put Miami up 2-0 in the 62nd minute.&nbsp;"We know that playoffs are tough, so we wanted to start with a win at home," De Paul said.&nbsp;"Hopefully, this is just the beginning. The team did very well today in terms of intensity, focus, understanding the moments when to attack and when to defend.&nbsp;"We showed that we are growing as a team, and that's the most important thing."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</a>&nbsp;Messi made sure of the win nine minutes into second-half injury time when Nashville keeper Joe Willis leapt forward to stop a ball from Jordi Alba the left wing but failed to corral it, leaving Messi to slot home.&nbsp;That meant Hany Mukhtar's strike in the 11th and final minute of stoppage time was nothing but window dressing.&nbsp;The victory comes a day after Messi inked a three-year contract extension that will keep the 38-year-old in Florida through 2028.&nbsp;That was music to the ears of MLS commissioner Don Garber, who was on hand to present Messi's Golden Boot award.&nbsp;"I don't think we ever could have imagined that Leo would have been able to deliver for this club, for this city and for this league the way he had," Garber said.&nbsp;"He has reset the trajectory for Major League Soccer and we were already doing pretty well. And I think having three more years is just going to be another gift."&nbsp;De Paul said he was happy for Messi -- and happy to have the all-time great on his team."We see him every weekend, it's an advantage," he said. "We have to keep enjoying him. I'm very happy about the renewal because it means we'll be together for a few more years, so I'm very pleased."&nbsp;Mascherano, whose side is chasing a first MLS Cup title, said Inter can't afford to ease up, even though they have now beaten Nashville in two straight games including an emphatic 5-2 win in the regular-season finale.&nbsp;"Nashville has a style and way of playing that can cause a lot of damage ... We made many adjustments compared to the previous match, but it won't be enough," Mascherano said. "We have to keep improving."&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel  Messi was presented with the Golden Boot award before the game after topping the regular-season scoring chart with 29 goals in 28 games.

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi scored twice to lift Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over Nashville SC on Friday in the opening game of their MLS Cup round one playoff series. Tadeo Allende also scored for Inter, who took a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series, with game two in Nashville on November 1. Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi was presented with the Golden Boot award before the game after topping the regular-season scoring chart with 29 goals in 28 games. He wasted no time in demonstrating how he earned it, putting Miami up 1-0 with a diving header off a pass from Luis Suarez in the 19th minute. Sergio Busquets had gained control of the ball near the sideline and passed to Rodrigo De Paul. De Paul found a charging Messi, who handed off to Suarez on the right and pressed forward to connect when Suarez fed it back. ALSO READ | From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history Allende's header from a pass by Ian Fray put Miami up 2-0 in the 62nd minute. "We know that playoffs are tough, so we wanted to start with a win at home," De Paul said. "Hopefully, this is just the beginning. The team did very well today in terms of intensity, focus, understanding the moments when to attack and when to defend. "We showed that we are growing as a team, and that's the most important thing." ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more Messi made sure of the win nine minutes into second-half injury time when Nashville keeper Joe Willis leapt forward to stop a ball from Jordi Alba the left wing but failed to corral it, leaving Messi to slot home. That meant Hany Mukhtar's strike in the 11th and final minute of stoppage time was nothing but window dressing. The victory comes a day after Messi inked a three-year contract extension that will keep the 38-year-old in Florida through 2028. That was music to the ears of MLS commissioner Don Garber, who was on hand to present Messi's Golden Boot award. "I don't think we ever could have imagined that Leo would have been able to deliver for this club, for this city and for this league the way he had," Garber said. "He has reset the trajectory for Major League Soccer and we were already doing pretty well. And I think having three more years is just going to be another gift." De Paul said he was happy for Messi -- and happy to have the all-time great on his team. "We see him every weekend, it's an advantage," he said. "We have to keep enjoying him. I'm very happy about the renewal because it means we'll be together for a few more years, so I'm very pleased." Mascherano, whose side is chasing a first MLS Cup title, said Inter can't afford to ease up, even though they have now beaten Nashville in two straight games including an emphatic 5-2 win in the regular-season finale. "Nashville has a style and way of playing that can cause a lot of damage ... We made many adjustments compared to the previous match, but it won't be enough," Mascherano said. "We have to keep improving." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel &nbsp;Messi was presented with the Golden Boot award before the game after topping the regular-season scoring chart with 29 goals in 28 games.

Lionel Messi brace fuels Inter Miami over Nashville in MLS Cup series opener

FC Cincinnati led the way into the Major League Soccer playoffs on Wednesday as the slim post-season hopes of Lionel Messi's Inter Miami took a hit with a goalless draw against Nashville.

Second-half goals from Luciano Acosta and Brandon Vazquez lifted Cincinnati to a 2-1 victory at Atlanta, where Colombian Edwin Mosquera's first MLS goal had put the hosts ahead in the 10th minute.

The victory was Cincinnati's first at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and took the Eastern Conference leaders to 57 points and the first berth in the MLS Cup playoffs with eight matches remaining in the regular season.

Miami, meanwhile, made little headway in their unlikely bid to make the playoffs as they were held scoreless for the first time in the 10 games of the Messi era.

The Argentine star had scored 11 goals in nine appearances since joining Inter Miami -- including their run to the Leagues Cup crown, in a US Open Cup semi-final and in his regular-season debut off the bench in New York on Saturday.

The workload may have finally caught up with him on Wednesday as he was unable to work the magic again in front of another star-studded crowd at a blustery DRV PNK Stadium, where boxing great Floyd Mayweather and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino were among the spectators.

The draw left Miami 10 points out of the final playoff spot with 10 games remaining

They travel across the country to take on MLS Cup champions Los Angeles FC on Sunday.

Messi and former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets both started the game after coming off the bench in the 60th minute in New York.

Despite controlling possession throughout a frustrating first half, Miami struggled to create real chances against Nashville's disciplined defense.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-coach-rahul-dravid-answers-all-experimenting-questions-says-didnt-do-for-sake-of-it-630582">India coach Rahul Dravid answers all 'experimenting' questions, says didn't do for sake of it</a>

Miami fans were on the edge of their seats after Messi drew a foul on Nashville's Dax McCarty in the 60th minute and stepped up to take a free kick, but his effort to the bottom left corner was gathered in by Nashville goalkeeper Elliott Panicco.

Nashville’s Hany Mukhtar had a goal erased by an offside call in the 69th minute.

Messi had another free kick from a dangerous position in the 83rd minute but his shot caromed harmlessly off the wall of defenders.

In Atlanta, Mosquera blasted home a deflected cross to put the hosts up early.

Acosta leveled the score with his 13th goal of the season in the 75th minute, spliting two defenders and playing a pass to Junior MOreno, who headed the ball down to Acosta who beat Atlanta keeper Brad Guzan with a one-time shot into the top corner.

Five minutes later Acosta collected the ball in midfield sent it out to Alvaro Barreal on the left wing. Barreal's cross found Vazquez, whose fifth goal of the season sealed Cincinnati's 17th victory.

Cincinnati edged even closer to the MLS single-season points record of 73, set by the New England Revolution in 2021.

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FC Cincinnati led the way into the Major League Soccer playoffs on Wednesday as the slim post-season hopes of Lionel Messi's Inter Miami took a hit with a goalless draw against Nashville.

FC Cincinnati led the way into the Major League Soccer playoffs on Wednesday as the slim post-season hopes of Lionel Messi's Inter Miami took a hit with a goalless draw against Nashville. Second-half goals from Luciano Acosta and Brandon Vazquez lifted Cincinnati to a 2-1 victory at Atlanta, where Colombian Edwin Mosquera's first MLS goal had put the hosts ahead in the 10th minute. The victory was Cincinnati's first at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and took the Eastern Conference leaders to 57 points and the first berth in the MLS Cup playoffs with eight matches remaining in the regular season. Miami, meanwhile, made little headway in their unlikely bid to make the playoffs as they were held scoreless for the first time in the 10 games of the Messi era. The Argentine star had scored 11 goals in nine appearances since joining Inter Miami -- including their run to the Leagues Cup crown, in a US Open Cup semi-final and in his regular-season debut off the bench in New York on Saturday. The workload may have finally caught up with him on Wednesday as he was unable to work the magic again in front of another star-studded crowd at a blustery DRV PNK Stadium, where boxing great Floyd Mayweather and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino were among the spectators. The draw left Miami 10 points out of the final playoff spot with 10 games remaining They travel across the country to take on MLS Cup champions Los Angeles FC on Sunday. Messi and former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets both started the game after coming off the bench in the 60th minute in New York. Despite controlling possession throughout a frustrating first half, Miami struggled to create real chances against Nashville's disciplined defense. ALSO READ | India coach Rahul Dravid answers all 'experimenting' questions, says didn't do for sake of it Miami fans were on the edge of their seats after Messi drew a foul on Nashville's Dax McCarty in the 60th minute and stepped up to take a free kick, but his effort to the bottom left corner was gathered in by Nashville goalkeeper Elliott Panicco. Nashville’s Hany Mukhtar had a goal erased by an offside call in the 69th minute. Messi had another free kick from a dangerous position in the 83rd minute but his shot caromed harmlessly off the wall of defenders. In Atlanta, Mosquera blasted home a deflected cross to put the hosts up early. Acosta leveled the score with his 13th goal of the season in the 75th minute, spliting two defenders and playing a pass to Junior MOreno, who headed the ball down to Acosta who beat Atlanta keeper Brad Guzan with a one-time shot into the top corner. Five minutes later Acosta collected the ball in midfield sent it out to Alvaro Barreal on the left wing. Barreal's cross found Vazquez, whose fifth goal of the season sealed Cincinnati's 17th victory. Cincinnati edged even closer to the MLS single-season points record of 73, set by the New England Revolution in 2021. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

MLS: Blow for Lionel Messi, Inter Miami playoff hopes as Cincinnati clinch spot

Inter Miami has been slapped with a hefty fine of $2 million by the US' football&nbsp;league, Major League Soccer (MLS), following an investigation over salary budget breeches into last year's signing of former France international midfielder Blaise Matuidi.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-massimiliano-allegri-returns-to-juventus-after-pirlo-departs-388078" hreflang="en">Football: Massimiliano Allegri returns to Juventus after Pirlo departs</a>

The MLS club, co-owned by former football star David Beckham, bought the 2018 World Cup winner and Andres Reyes should have occupied designated player slots, the MLS said in announcing their verdict on Friday.

The Miami-based club was also fined due to undisclosed agreements that resulted in the underreporting of salaries to Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, Nicolas Figal and Julian Carranza.

Team's managing owner Jorge Mas was fined US$250,000. The chief operating officer of Inter Miami, Paul McDonough, who was also the Sports Director at the time, has been suspended till the end of the season.&nbsp;

The MLS pointed out that the players' contracts remain in force and would not be affected.

"The integrity of our rules is sacrosanct, and it is a fundamental principle of our league that our clubs are responsible for adhering to all league regulations," said MLS commissioner Don Garber.&nbsp;

"Our rules will not be compromised. These sanctions reflect the severity of Inter Miami's violations, should encourage complete cooperation by all parties in future investigations, and will serve as a deterrent for clubs from violating roster rules."

While Mas was among those cleared of wrongdoing, he was fined after the MLS decreed he was responsible for making sure the club had sufficient controls in place to comply with the league's rules.

"We have worked closely with MLS to address these issues and have made significant changes in our management structure," said Mas in a statement.

"Inter Miami is an ambitious club with big aspirations. We believe our fanbase, market and ownership group propel us to be one of North America’s most-followed futbol teams in the world.

"We are committed to supporting our team and building a roster we are proud of."

(Inputs from Reuters)

Inter Miami has been slapped with a hefty fine of $2 million by the US' football league, Major League Soccer (MLS), following an investigation over salary budget breeches into last year's signing of former France international midfielder Blaise Matuidi.

Inter Miami has been slapped with a hefty fine of $2 million by the US' football league, Major League Soccer (MLS), following an investigation over salary budget breeches into last year's signing of former France international midfielder Blaise Matuidi. ALSO READ: Football: Massimiliano Allegri returns to Juventus after Pirlo departs The MLS club, co-owned by former football star David Beckham, bought the 2018 World Cup winner and Andres Reyes should have occupied designated player slots, the MLS said in announcing their verdict on Friday. The Miami-based club was also fined due to undisclosed agreements that resulted in the underreporting of salaries to Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, Nicolas Figal and Julian Carranza. Team's managing owner Jorge Mas was fined US$250,000. The chief operating officer of Inter Miami, Paul McDonough, who was also the Sports Director at the time, has been suspended till the end of the season. The MLS pointed out that the players' contracts remain in force and would not be affected. "The integrity of our rules is sacrosanct, and it is a fundamental principle of our league that our clubs are responsible for adhering to all league regulations," said MLS commissioner Don Garber. "Our rules will not be compromised. These sanctions reflect the severity of Inter Miami's violations, should encourage complete cooperation by all parties in future investigations, and will serve as a deterrent for clubs from violating roster rules." While Mas was among those cleared of wrongdoing, he was fined after the MLS decreed he was responsible for making sure the club had sufficient controls in place to comply with the league's rules. "We have worked closely with MLS to address these issues and have made significant changes in our management structure," said Mas in a statement. "Inter Miami is an ambitious club with big aspirations. We believe our fanbase, market and ownership group propel us to be one of North America’s most-followed futbol teams in the world. "We are committed to supporting our team and building a roster we are proud of." (Inputs from Reuters)

Football: MLS slaps David Beckham's Inter Miami with hefty fine

Atlanta United FC used a distinctly Latin flair to win the Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup final on Saturday, beating Portland Timbers 2-0 to bring the city a rare professional sporting trophy.

In just their second year in the league, Atlanta capped off a spectacular rise by taking the final step in front of 73,000-plus festive fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Their starting 11 included five South Americans, not least 2018 MLS most valuable player (MVP) Josef Martinez, who opened the scoring in the 39th minute with his 35th goal of the season.

The prolific Venezuela striker received the ball unexpectedly on the edge of the box when defender Michael Parkhurst disposed Portland's Jeremy Ebobisse with a perfectly-timed tackle.

Martinez rounded goalie Jeff Attinella and calmly slotted home to settle the nerves of the crowd, the largest in league history for a non-double-header.

Martinez also had an assist in the second goal early in the second half.

When a free kick was swung into the penalty area, he rose to send a glancing header to full back Franco Escobar, who ghosted in at the far post to score from point-blank range.

Martinez was substituted to a raucous reception in the 75th minute, and was later named the game's MVP.

The victory provided a perfect send-off for Atlanta coach Gerardo 'Tata' Martino, who is leaving to take charge, according to multiple media reports, of the Mexico national team.

It also provided some consolation for team owner Arthur Blank, whose National Football League Falcons lost the Super Bowl two years ago after surrendering a huge lead.

Goalie Brad Guzan spoke of the significance of the title in a city that has only ever celebrated one championship in any of the four major team sports leagues -- baseball's Atlanta Braves in 1995.

"First and foremost it's huge for the city. These fans have been behind us since day one," Guzan told Fox Sports.

"For me personally, this is up there with the top moments. You never know if you're going to have this opportunity again."

Guzan said the team had expected Portland to sit deep.

"We knew at times we were going to have a lot of possession. It was a matter of finding the first goal and opening them up.

"As they say, goals change games. That made them change their game plan," added the 34-year-old who had been little more than a spectator until that first goal.

He was finally called into action in the 43rd minute when he sharply saved a header from Ebobisse, who from just six yards out squandered a golden chance at redemption.

But the Timbers otherwise created precious little, unable to add to their 2015 championship.

Atlanta United FC used a distinctly Latin flair to win the Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup final on Saturday, beating Portland Timbers 2-0 to bring the city a rare professional sporting trophy.

Atlanta United FC used a distinctly Latin flair to win the Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup final on Saturday, beating Portland Timbers 2-0 to bring the city a rare professional sporting trophy. In just their second year in the league, Atlanta capped off a spectacular rise by taking the final step in front of 73,000-plus festive fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Their starting 11 included five South Americans, not least 2018 MLS most valuable player (MVP) Josef Martinez, who opened the scoring in the 39th minute with his 35th goal of the season. The prolific Venezuela striker received the ball unexpectedly on the edge of the box when defender Michael Parkhurst disposed Portland's Jeremy Ebobisse with a perfectly-timed tackle. Martinez rounded goalie Jeff Attinella and calmly slotted home to settle the nerves of the crowd, the largest in league history for a non-double-header. Martinez also had an assist in the second goal early in the second half. When a free kick was swung into the penalty area, he rose to send a glancing header to full back Franco Escobar, who ghosted in at the far post to score from point-blank range. Martinez was substituted to a raucous reception in the 75th minute, and was later named the game's MVP. The victory provided a perfect send-off for Atlanta coach Gerardo 'Tata' Martino, who is leaving to take charge, according to multiple media reports, of the Mexico national team. It also provided some consolation for team owner Arthur Blank, whose National Football League Falcons lost the Super Bowl two years ago after surrendering a huge lead. Goalie Brad Guzan spoke of the significance of the title in a city that has only ever celebrated one championship in any of the four major team sports leagues -- baseball's Atlanta Braves in 1995. "First and foremost it's huge for the city. These fans have been behind us since day one," Guzan told Fox Sports. "For me personally, this is up there with the top moments. You never know if you're going to have this opportunity again." Guzan said the team had expected Portland to sit deep. "We knew at times we were going to have a lot of possession. It was a matter of finding the first goal and opening them up. "As they say, goals change games. That made them change their game plan," added the 34-year-old who had been little more than a spectator until that first goal. He was finally called into action in the 43rd minute when he sharply saved a header from Ebobisse, who from just six yards out squandered a golden chance at redemption. But the Timbers otherwise created precious little, unable to add to their 2015 championship.

Atlanta United win MLS Cup after defeating Portland in final

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