The match also served as the debut for new head coach Cristian "Kily" Gonzalez. Despite being appointed last month, visa complications meant the Argentine manager only oversaw his first training sessions with the squad earlier this week, making the trophy-winning start particularly notable.
A Historic Century and Tactical Dominance
The deadlock was broken in the 24th minute when Messi connected with a cross from Luis Suarez. In a rare display of aerial prowess, the 5-foot-7 forward outjumped defender Willer Ditta to score with a diving header. This strike officially marked Messi’s 100th goal for the club across all competitions, a feat achieved in just 114 appearances, during which he has also contributed 55 assists.
Inter Miami maintained their momentum throughout the first half, with Suarez nearly setting up a second goal in the 32nd minute. After receiving a precise cross-field pass from Messi, Suarez lofted the ball to German Berterame, whose attempt was cleared off the line by the Cruz Azul defense. Messi thought he had extended the lead shortly after halftime, but his effort was disallowed due to an offside ruling.
Securing the Trophy
Cruz Azul pushed for an equalizer as the second half progressed, coming closest in the 67th minute when a glancing header from substitute Gabriel Fernandez struck the post. Casemiro was on hand to block the follow-up attempt, preserving Miami's narrow lead.
The result was finally put beyond doubt in the 81st minute. Messi delivered a corner kick that found Casemiro, who headed the ball into the far corner to secure a 2-0 victory. Goalkeeper Dayne St Clair ensured the clean sheet remained intact late in the game, making a crucial save from a Jose Paradela free kick.
This victory ends a streak of three consecutive wins for Mexican teams in the Campeones Cup. For Cruz Azul, the defeat continues their search for a first title in the competition, having previously lost the 2021 final. The match, held at the home of the
