Inter Miami Player Ratings: Miami Outclassed as Seattle Seals Leagues Cup

Inter Miami player ratings headlined a night where the Herons struggled to match the intensity and clinical finishing of the Seattle Sounders, falling 3-0 in a high-stakes Leagues Cup final at Lumen Field. More than 69,300 fans flooded the stadium, setting a new attendance record and generating an electric atmosphere that fueled the home side.

Inter Miami Player Ratings: Messi Silenced, Seattle Takes Control

Inter Miami entered the match with high expectations, especially given Lionel Messi’s historic scoring record in club finals. However, the Sounders’ tactical discipline and relentless pressing kept Messi and his teammates at bay. Despite a few promising moments in the opening stages—most notably, Messi’s early chance that was thwarted by Oded Vargas’ last-ditch tackle—the Miami attack was largely stifled throughout the match.

First Half: Seattle’s Pressure Pays Off

Seattle Sounders set the tone from the kickoff. Osaze De Rosario, showcasing his pedigree as the son of MLS legend Dwayne De Rosario, missed an early chance but made amends in the 26th minute. A fluid attacking sequence ended with Christian Roldan’s pinpoint cross, which De Rosario headed home powerfully, putting the Sounders up 1-0. Inter Miami’s defensive frailties were exposed further when Jesus Ferreira struck the post just before halftime, leaving the Herons fortunate to trail by only a single goal.

Second Half: Miami’s Tactical Shift Fails

After the break, Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano shifted to a more attacking 4-3-3 formation, seeking to capitalize on any Seattle complacency. The change initially brought a spark—Messi was set up brilliantly by Luis Suárez only to sky his shot over the bar. Sensing the urgency, Mascherano made further attacking substitutions, but his gamble left Miami vulnerable at the back.

Seattle swiftly exploited the stretched Miami defense. Paul Rothrock nearly beat Oscar Ustari after Sergio Busquets was forced into a makeshift center-back role. Moments later, substitute Georgi Minoungou won a penalty after being brought down by Yannick Bright, and Alex Roldan calmly converted to double Seattle’s advantage.

Closing Moments: Sounders Seal the Title

Shortly thereafter, Rothrock took full advantage of a counterattack, sprinting clear and firing home Seattle’s third goal, effectively sealing the match. The home fans erupted as the Sounders celebrated their dominant performance, while Inter Miami’s frustrations boiled over.

Ugly Scenes Mar End of Inter Miami Player Ratings Night

Tensions flared after the final whistle, overshadowing the player ratings discussion. A scuffle broke out involving Luis Suárez and Oded Vargas, escalating into a brawl that saw both benches clear. The melee lasted several minutes before order was restored and the trophy presentation resumed.

Historic Triumph for Schmetzer and Seattle

Seattle’s head coach Brian Schmetzer added another accolade to his storied career, becoming the first manager to win every major North American trophy. Both teams, however, can look forward to competing in next year’s Champions Cup thanks to their run in this tournament.

Opinion: Inter Miami Player Ratings Reflect Broader Issues

The Inter Miami player ratings from this final reveal more than just an off night for Messi—Miami’s lack of defensive depth and tactical adaptability were laid bare by a sharper, better-coached Seattle squad. If the Herons wish to compete for more silverware, manager Javier Mascherano must address these vulnerabilities. For more news on football’s biggest stories and in-depth analysis, visit for more news.