Inter Miami vs Cruz Azul: Messi Hits Historic 100-Goal Mark in Campeones Cup Win

Inter Miami CF secured a 2-0 victory over Mexican side Cruz Azul on September 17, 2026, to claim the Campeones Cup at Nu Stadium. While the trophy adds to the club's growing silverware collection, the match is defined by a historic individual milestone: Lionel Messi scoring his 100th goal for the club.

Messi's 'Fastest to 100' Record

Lionel Messi reached the 100-goal mark for Inter Miami in just 115 appearances, making him the fastest player to reach 100 goals for any club or country. To put this efficiency into perspective, Messi previously reached the same milestone in 188 games for FC Barcelona and 174 appearances for the Argentina national team [1].

The milestone goal came in the 24th minute of the match, when Messi headed home a precise cross from longtime partner Luis Suárez. This victory marks the 49th professional trophy of Messi's career [1].

Breakdown of Messi's Total Goals for Inter Miami

Since arriving in South Florida in 2023, Messi's scoring trajectory has accelerated annually [2]:

• 2023: 11 goals
• 2024: 23 goals
• 2025: 43 goals
• 2026 (to date): 23 goals

Across all competitions, his goal distribution includes 76 in MLS, 14 in the Leagues Cup, eight in the Concacaf Champions Cup, and one in the FIFA Club World Cup [1].

Match Timeline and Key Performers

The match was a controlled performance by Inter Miami, though Cruz Azul threatened early with a 6th-minute chance saved by goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair. The timeline of the victory is as follows:

• 24th Minute: Lionel Messi scores the opener via a header from a Luis Suárez cross.
• 81st Minute: Casemiro doubles the lead with a header following a corner delivered by Messi.

The win also served as a successful debut for new head coach Cristian “Kily” González, who earned a trophy in his first game in charge [2]. Casemiro's goal was his fourth since joining the club in the summer of 2026.

Post-Match Tension and Future Outlook

Despite the celebration, a viral moment emerged post-game involving a heated exchange between Messi and MLS Commissioner Don Garber. Reports indicate Messi was seen pointing his finger at Garber multiple times during their interaction, though both the league and the club declined to comment on the incident [3].

Looking ahead, Inter Miami currently sits second in the Eastern Conference standings with 45 points, trailing Nashville SC by nine points [3]. While the Campeones Cup is a significant achievement, the club remains focused on the MLS Cup. Meanwhile, Messi is preparing for a poignant personal milestone: his final appearance for Argentina on October 6 against Benin in Buenos Aires [1].