Seattle Sounders power past Inter Miami 3-0 in the Leagues Cup final. Messi silenced, Rothrock rising — recap, highlights, lineups, and how to watch.
Match in One Line
Seattle Sounders delivered a statement performance, routing Inter Miami 3–0 in the Leagues Cup final — silencing Lionel Messi and securing their first-ever Leagues Cup title on home soil.
Context Heading into the Final
This final marked the third straight all-MLS finale in the Leagues Cup. Sounders entered the match unbeaten throughout the tournament phases and were the only team (MLS or Liga MX) with a perfect 9 points in Phase One. Miami, the 2023 champions, were led by returning superstar Lionel Messi and headed into Seattle looking to reclaim silverware. Both finalists also secured spots in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup by virtue of reaching the final.
The Final: Key Highlights & Turning Points
De Rosario's opener
Seattle struck first via a header from Osaze De Rosario in the first half, breaking the deadlock and setting the tone.
Roldan’s cool penalty
Later, Alex Roldan converted a spot-kick—earned after a foul on Georgi Minoungou—doubling Seattle's lead.
Rothrock seals it
Hometown hero Paul Rothrock capped the scoring with a composed finish, ensuring a commanding 3–0 victory.
Players & Moments That Defined the Match
Lionel Messi, typically the game-changer, was held scoreless and visibly frustrated — culminating in a rare post-match incident involving Luis Suárez. ([The Guardian][turn0news16], [ESPN][turn0search13])
Luis Suárez crossed a line, confronting Seattle staff physically and even spitting — behavior that overshadowed headlines and is expected to prompt league discipline.
Cristian Roldan & Defensive Cohesion
Seattle’s team discipline was evident throughout — anchored by strong defensive work, organized midfield transitions, and clinical finishing.
Records & Significance Beyond the Scoreline
Attendance milestone:
A club-record 69,314 fans packed Lumen Field — smashing previous Leagues Cup single-game attendance records.
Historic achievement:
With this victory, Seattle completed their collection of all major North American trophies — MLS Cup, U.S. Open Cup, Supporters’ Shield, Concacaf Champions Cup, and now Leagues Cup. They’re the first MLS team to complete this set.
Both finalists advanced to the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, but Seattle earned a bye into the Round of 16 thanks to the win.
Where to Watch & Broadcast Info
If you're asking where to watch Seattle Sounders vs Inter Miami:
Streaming: Available globally via MLS Season Pass on Apple TV+ — seattle sounders vs inter miami, inter miami, sounders vs inter miami, seattle sounders, inter miami vs seattle sounders, sounders, mls, inter de miami, inter miami vs, miami vs seattle, messi, paul rothrock, seattle vs miami, leagues cup final, miami fc, inter miami cf, osaze de rosario, lumen field, lionel messi, miami vs, seattle sounders vs. inter miami, seattle, sounders game, seattle sounders vs inter miami lineups, seattle vs inter miami, rothrock sounders, miami inter, cristian roldan, brian schmetzer, seattle sounders fc, miami soccer, rodrigo de paul, inter, sounders vs miami, mls leagues cup, league cup final English commentary by Jake Zivin & Taylor Twellman; Spanish coverage on Univision and TUDN.
Radio: In Seattle, catch live audio on 950 KJR AM (English) and El Rey 1360AM (Spanish); satellite streaming on SiriusXM FC.
What Comes Next?
For Seattle: This win injects massive momentum into their MLS season. Their next match is vs LA Galaxy on Sept 13.
For Miami: A period of regrouping lies ahead. They must refocus as MLS regular season resumes and address disciplinary concerns, particularly Suárez's conduct.
Final Take
This was more than a title match — it was a defining moment for the Seattle Sounders as they etched their name in MLS history with a trophy sweep and a special Leagues Cup display. Beating Inter Miami 3–0 — on a record-setting night at Lumen Field, with stars like Messi silenced — positions Seattle at the forefront of North American club soccer.