Inter Miami CF captain Lionel Messi emphasized the need for the team to enhance its defensive skills to be true contenders for the MLS Cup, stating that every member is ready to battle for the title.
“This season, like the last, we’ve made significant strides,” Messi shared in an interview aired on Apple TV this Wednesday. “While several new players have joined and others have left, there were times when we performed at a very high level. However, our defensive irregularity led to conceding many goals, which is an area we still need to address.”
“We need to improve in that area if we genuinely want to win the MLS Cup.”
In their playoff series opener, Miami secured a 3-1 victory against Nashville SC on Saturday.
Last year, Miami faced elimination in the first round of the postseason after losing their best-of-three series against Atlanta United FC.
“Yes, I believe we can win the MLS Cup. It won’t be easy,” Messi acknowledged. “We learned from last year when we topped the regular season but were knocked out in the first round.”
“The playoffs are a different competition; the matches take on a different intensity. Teams become more cautious and attentive to details, knowing that any situation can lead to elimination. But we are definitely ready to fight and strive for what we all want.”
Since Messi’s arrival in Miami, the club has claimed the inaugural 2023 Leagues Cup, won the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, and set the record for the most points in a single season, yet they have yet to secure the MLS Cup during his tenure.
During the 2025 season, the Herons also participated in the Concacaf Champions Cup, Leagues Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup, but unfortunately did not win any trophies in those competitions.
“Even though we didn’t win any titles, it was a positive year, and we still have the chance to achieve our goal by winning MLS,” Messi concluded.
Miami’s second game against Nashville is set for Saturday at GEODIS Park, with the opportunity to advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals on the line should they secure a win.