The MLS Cup Final between Inter Miami and the Vancouver Whitecaps brings a historic rivalry back into focus, as Lionel Messi prepares to meet Thomas Muller once more. Their long-running rivalry adds worldwide attention to a match already rife with tension and elite quality.
Messi and Muller have played ten games for club and country, with Muller winning seven of them. This history makes a compelling story as both veterans return to the forefront in a high-stakes finale.
Argentina suffered defeats against Germany in the 2010 World Cup quarterfinals and the 2014 World Cup Final. Messi and Inter Miami’s coach, Javier Mascherano, were key protagonists in both games.
Muller scored early in Germany’s 4-0 victory in 2010, whereas Messi’s team suffered heartbreak during extra time in the 2014 final. Their first meeting in MLS will take place on Saturday.
They have competed against each other in key Champions League matches in addition to national team competitions. Muller dominated the most of these matches while playing for Bayern Munich, winning five out of six.
One of the most famous moments occurred in the 2020 Champions League quarterfinals, when Bayern defeated Barcelona 8-2. Muller scored twice that night, and Barcelona’s lineup included numerous current Inter Miami players.
Messi’s only club victory versus Muller occurred in 2015, when Barcelona defeated Bayern 3-0 on their way to the Champions League title. Following that season, both players went on to have legendary careers.
Messi and Muller, at 38 and 36, are equal for third place in terms of Champions League appearances. They have won six competition titles together, cementing their status as two of football’s greatest players.
Muller also won the 2014 World Cup with Germany, and Messi will lift the 2022 World Cup with Argentina. Their combined achievements provide unparalleled expertise on the MLS stage.
Despite the focus on their rivalry, Muller argues that the final is about the teams, not the players. He lauded Vancouver’s superb team play and mentioned that Miami benefited much from Messi’s leadership.
Muller stated that the showdown excites people worldwide because legendary players produce larger moments. Following dominant semifinal victories, both teams are confident heading into the final.
As Inter Miami and Vancouver prepare for kickoff, the focus naturally shifts back to Messi and Muller. Their history guarantees that Saturday’s MLS Cup Final will be one of the most anticipated games of the season.
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