Star player Messi sustains an injury on the field during the climactic match, prompting his teammate to instigate a physical altercation
In a thrilling Leagues Cup Final at Lumen Field, the Seattle Sounders emerged victorious against Inter Miami, securing a 0:3 (0:1) victory and making history as the first team to have won all major North American trophies at least once.
The match saw a controversial moment when Inter Miami's star player, Luis Suárez, instigated a brawl after the final whistle. As a result, Suárez will serve a suspension for three MLS regular season games on September 13, 16, and 20. This penalty follows an earlier six-match ban in future editions of the tournament for his conduct after the final whistle, including spitting on a Seattle staff member and allegedly choking Seattle midfielder Obed Vargas.
Suárez's actions come as no surprise to those familiar with his history of controversy on the pitch. In 2011, he was banned for eight games and fined by the English FA for racially abusing Patrice Evra of Manchester United. His most infamous incident occurred during the 2014 World Cup when he was suspended for four months after biting Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini.
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano suggested that there might have been a provocation leading to the brawl, but no new information was provided regarding this matter.
Meanwhile, Seattle Sounders coach Brian Schmetzer praised his team, saying they are "talented individuals and talented players" who "give their all for their sport." Schmetzer expressed his joy after the Leagues Cup final, stating, "It's a great day to be a Sounder."
The Leagues Cup final was attended by a record crowd of 69,314 spectators, underscoring the enthusiasm and support for the Seattle Sounders.
In addition to their Leagues Cup triumph, Seattle Sounders, Inter Miami, and third-placed Los Angeles Galaxy have qualified for the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup. This qualification offers the possibility of qualifying for the 2029 Club World Cup.
Superstar Lionel Messi suffered a loss with Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup final, marking a disappointing end to their season. Osaze De Rosario, Alex Roldan, and Paul Rothrock scored for Seattle Sounders in the decisive match.
As the dust settles on the Leagues Cup final, the focus shifts to the MLS regular season and the consequences that Luis Suárez will face for his actions.
