Javier Mascherano revelled in leading Inter Miami to their first MLS Cup final following their 5-1 thrashing of New York City FC at Chase Stadium.

Tadeo Allende scored a hat-trick and Mateo Silvetti and Telasco Segovia also got themselves on the scoresheet, as the Herons won the Eastern Conference title in style.

Indeed, Miami became the first team in MLS history to win three successive games by four or more goals in a single postseason campaign, but they still have one game to go. 

Their victory set up a clash with the Vancouver Whitecaps on December 6, with Jesper Sorensen's team downing San Diego FC 3-1 in their Western Conference clash. 

Miami had never gone beyond the first round in the MLS playoffs ahead of the 2025 campaign, though Mascherano is still wanting more from his team. 

"The final stretch of the season consists of two championships – one being the regular season and the other the playoffs," he said.  

"It's great that this moment has arrived, reinforcing our conviction to continue along the same path. 

"Because of today's achievement, we will be remembered in the history of this club as conference champions, which is no small feat. 

"The most important thing, the main prize, is this trophy."

Lionel Messi and company were more than worthy of their win against NYCFC, registering an expected goals (xG) total of 2.34 from their 12 shots to their opponents' 0.44 from their five attempts. 

But ahead of their meeting at Chase Stadium next week, Vancouver have had the better of their recent meetings with Miami.

Across two games between April and May, Vancouver emerged 5-1 aggregate victors from a CONCACAF Champions Cup tie, though the teams' last MLS meeting ended in a 2-1 win for Miami. 

However, Miami co-owner Jorge Mas attempted to rally his team ahead of facing Vancouver, as they look to clinch the MLS Cup title for the first time in club history. 

"This [trophy] is for you, Miami, our fans, 'La Familia.' The club made an amazing effort, and it was a great result," Mas said.

"But more importantly, this is one down, one to go. One more."