Confirmed Lineups
Update Soon — Lineups will be available 1 hour before kickoff.
1. Two World Champions Face Off
The 2025 MLS Cup Final will be highlighted by two of the greatest competitors of their era: Lionel Messi and Thomas Müller. Both World Cup winners and global icons, they now stand at the core of their clubs’ dreams, guiding Inter Miami and Vancouver Whitecaps respectively toward the most important match of the MLS season. Their presence alone has elevated the narrative of this final into an international spectacle, placing two footballing minds and leaders on opposing ends of the pitch.
2. Messi’s Creative Genius Fuels Miami’s Charge
Messi arrives on the grand stage in imperious form, driving Inter Miami through a record-breaking year of goals and creativity. With 13 goal contributions in the current postseason, he has reached a level of influence that no other player in MLS history has matched. His vision, decision-making, and ability to alter the direction of a match in an instant make him the centerpiece of Miami’s fluid, possession-oriented attack. Everything Miami build — from tempo to chance creation — flows through their captain.
3. Müller’s Intelligence Elevates Vancouver’s Attack
Müller, meanwhile, has transformed Vancouver’s identity since joining the club as a marquee signing. His ability to find space, anticipate the play, and deliver decisive finishes has given Vancouver a new attacking dimension. Eight goals and three assists in 11 appearances showcase his direct impact, but the true strength of Müller’s game lies in intelligence: the instinctive runs, the disguised passes, and the calm in tight moments that lift teammates around him. Vancouver look to him not only to score, but to inspire belief.
4. Contrasting Styles, Shared Pedigree
Though different in style, both legends share the same elite characteristic: they step forward in high-pressure matches. Messi’s artistry and playmaking brilliance contrast with Müller’s positional mastery and ruthless efficiency, shaping the final into a clash of roles and philosophies. Miami depend on Messi’s creativity to break organized lines, while Vancouver rely on Müller’s timing to punish mistakes and convert turning points. This duel represents not just two stars, but two complete footballing blueprints.
5. One Final, One Stage, One Defining Moment
As the MLS Cup Final narrows to a single match, the influence of these veterans may prove decisive. One moment of inspiration — a Messi through ball or a Müller late run — could tip the scales and etch a new chapter in league history. Regardless of the result, the final will stand as a rare meeting of champions who lifted the sport’s biggest trophy and now chase one more piece of silverware in Major League Soccer.
Predicted lineups may be available a few days ahead of the match, while the official starting XI will typically be released around one hour before kickoff. Stay tuned for lineup updates, live scores, and full-time results.
⚽ Don’t miss this exciting clash :Inter Miami CF vs Vancouver Whitecaps — coming soon!