Alex Roldan starred with a goal and two assists as the Seattle Sounders defeated Inter Miami 3-0 in the Leagues Cup final, denying Lionel Messi another trophy. Osaze De Rosario and Paul Rothrock also scored for Seattle, who dominated the match and showcased their defensive strength. The victory marks the Sounders’ first Leagues Cup title and their ninth trophy since joining MLS in 2009. Despite Messi’s efforts, Inter Miami couldn’t find a breakthrough against Seattle’s organized defense.
Seattle, WA – Alex Roldan delivered a masterful performance, scoring a goal and providing two assists, as the Seattle Sounders cruised to a 3-0 victory over Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup final. The Sounders' triumph denied Lionel Messi another trophy and marked their first Leagues Cup title.
The match, held at a packed Lumen Field, saw Roldan orchestrate Seattle's attack, setting up Osaze De Rosario and Paul Rothrock for goals on either side of his own penalty conversion in the 84th minute. Brian Schmetzer’s tactical setup stifled Miami's potent attack, showcasing Seattle's defensive resilience and clinical finishing.
Seattle drew first blood in the 26th minute when De Rosario expertly headed Roldan’s cross past Inter Miami goalkeeper Oscar Ustari. De Rosario's fourth goal of the tournament highlighted his consistent performance throughout the competition.
Inter Miami, spurred by Luis Suarez, attempted to mount a comeback in the second half. Suarez created two clear-cut chances for Lionel Messi and Tadeo Allende, but both failed to convert, leaving Miami frustrated.
The turning point arrived in the 84th minute when Roldan doubled Seattle’s advantage from the penalty spot. The penalty was awarded after Georgi Minoungou was fouled inside the box by Yannick Bright. Roldan calmly slotted the ball home, extending Seattle’s lead and further dampening Miami’s spirits.
Five minutes later, Roldan turned provider again, setting up Rothrock who sealed the victory with a well-taken goal. The late surge underscored Seattle’s dominance and ensured a comfortable victory.
Tempers flared at the final whistle, with tensions rising between the two sides. Suarez was involved in an incident where he appeared to spit on a Seattle staff member, potentially leading to disciplinary action.
Memories for a lifetime
Sweet dreams, Sounders Fam. pic.twitter.com/3WRBS2eajN
— Seattle Sounders FC (@SoundersFC) September 1, 2025
Earlier in the day, the Los Angeles Galaxy secured third place by defeating Orlando City 2-1. Marco Reus opened the scoring early, followed by Joseph Paintsil’s decisive goal in the 67th minute, shortly after Martin Ojeda had equalized for Orlando.
Data Debrief: Seattle’s Expanding Trophy Cabinet
With this Leagues Cup victory, the Seattle Sounders have now accumulated nine trophies since joining MLS in 2009. Their defensive performance was key, preventing Inter Miami from registering a single shot on target. Seattle generated 2.44 expected goals (xG) from 11 shots, compared to Miami’s 1.33.
Osaze De Rosario's impressive run in the tournament saw him only outscored by Angel Correa, who had five goals. Alex Roldan finished as the Leagues Cup's top assist provider with four assists.
Despite a valiant effort, Lionel Messi couldn’t propel his team to victory. He recorded a game-high five shots, attempted the most dribbles (seven), and created one scoring chance, but it wasn't enough to overcome Seattle's organized defense and potent attack.
The Sounders' triumph serves as a statement of intent, solidifying their position as one of the top teams in North American soccer. Roldan's stellar performance will be remembered as a defining moment in the Leagues Cup final, etching his name into Seattle Sounders' folklore. The win not only brings silverware to Seattle but also highlights the club's commitment to developing talent and building a cohesive, winning team.
For Inter Miami, the defeat is a setback, but with Messi and Suarez leading the line, they will undoubtedly regroup and aim for future success. However, the Sounders' organized defense and clinical attack proved too much for the Herons on this occasion. The final serves as a reminder that even with star power, a well-structured team with a clear game plan can triumph.