Inter Miami wins Campeones Cup as Lionel Messi reaches 100-goal milestone

Inter Miami secured the 2026 Campeones Cup on September 17, 2026, defeating Cruz Azul 2-0 at Nu Stadium. This victory marked the first title under the leadership of new head coach Cristian "Kily" Gonzalez. Lionel Messi was the standout performer, scoring his 100th goal for the club—a header in the first half assisted by Luis Suarez—and providing the corner assist for Casemiro’s decisive second goal in the 81st minute. This milestone 100th goal holds symbolic significance as his first goal for the club in 2023 was also against Cruz Azul.

The 39-year-old Argentine forward now boasts 49 career titles. Following the match, Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham publicly advocated for Messi to receive his ninth Ballon d'Or next month. Beckham praised the veteran's influence during the World Cup and his sustained performance level at age 39, noting that Messi is currently among the 30 official candidates for the prestigious award. Cruz Azul previously threatened the lead when Gabriel Fernandez hit the post, but the Mexican side was unable to overcome the deficit.