Inside the 67.72 Impact Rating: Deconstructing Messi’s Efficient MLS Cup Final Performance
Inter Miami CF claimed their first-ever MLS Cup title on Saturday, defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1. While the scoreline suggests a comfortable victory, underlying match data reveals a contest defined by clinical efficiency rather than dominance.
As highlighted in the accompanying data visualization, Lionel Messi secured monumental Career Title #48, extending his all-time record. Despite a tactical shift by Miami, Messi remained the statistical outlier, recording a Match-Top 365Scores Impact Rating (IR) of 67.72.
Tactical Breakdown: Efficiency Over Possession
Inter Miami conceded possession for large swaths of the final, a notable deviation from their regular-season norm. By absorbing pressure and exploiting transition moments, they neutralized Vancouver’s high press. This approach was exemplified in the 71st minute when a midfield turnover was immediately converted into the match-winning goal by Rodrigo De Paul, assisted by Messi.
Player Analysis: The Messi Metric
Lionel Messi’s influence on the final was absolute, earning him MLS Cup MVP honors. His performance is best understood through the data points presented in the graphic above:
- 365Scores Impact Rating:67.72
- Context: This score secured his status as the Match Top Performer. While lower than his season average, this rating in a low-possession game indicates a maximal efficiency of actions in decisive areas.
- Key Contributions:2 Assists
- Messi provided the crucial final passes for both Rodrigo De Paul (71’) and Tadeo Allende (90+6’) to seal the victory.
Historical Context: The 48th Title
With this victory, Lionel Messi extends his world record for collective individual and club honors to 48 titles. This is his fourth trophy since joining Inter Miami, adding the MLS Cup to previous Leagues Cup and Supporters’ Shield triumphs.
