SEATTLE — The Seattle Sounders cemented their place in North American soccer history by shutting down Lionel Messi and Inter Miami in a commanding 3-0 victory to capture the Leagues Cup before a record crowd of 69,314 at Lumen Field on Sunday (Monday in the Philippines).
With the win, Seattle became the first Major League Soccer (MLS) club to complete the set of all major North American trophies — adding the Leagues Cup to their two MLS Cups, one Supporters’ Shield, four U.S. Open Cups, and a CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Osaze De Rosario broke the deadlock in the 26th minute with a header off an Alex Roldan cross. Roldan then doubled the advantage in the 84th minute from the penalty spot after Yannik Bright fouled Georgi Minoungou. Paul Rothrock sealed the title with a clinical angled strike in the 89th, capping a dominant display.
The Sounders’ defense held firm against Miami’s star-studded lineup, neutralizing Messi’s efforts and frustrating his teammates throughout the match. Officials had to step in after the final whistle to defuse tensions as Miami’s frustrations boiled over.
Despite late attempts from Messi and Tadeo Allende, Miami failed to break through Seattle’s backline. Roldan’s penalty and Rothrock’s finish ensured there was no late drama.
Both finalists had already secured spots in the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup, but Seattle’s triumph earned them direct entry into the round of 16 — a key step toward the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup.
Meanwhile, Los Angeles Galaxy bagged third place after edging Orlando City Soccer Club, 2-1.
The crowd of 69,314 set new attendance records for both the Leagues Cup and any Sounders home match, surpassing the 69,274 turnout during the 2019 MLS Cup final./PN
