Players to watch (not named Müller or Messi)
Brian White: The Whitecaps’ leading scorer had 16 goals in 21 games this season and scored a brace in the Western Conference final against San Diego FC.
Andrés Cubas: A workhorse defensive midfielder, Cubas played a key role in Vancouver’s first goal against San Diego in the Western Conference final. In the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinal, Cubas appeared to get under Messi’s skin.
Tristan Blackmon: The Whitecaps defender missed the Western final after earning a red card that set off a wild finish to Vancouver’s victory over LAFC in the semifinal. Named 2025 MLS Defender of the Year, Blackmon will return today to anchor the Whitecaps’ backline.
Tadeo Allende: On loan from Spanish club Celta Vigo, Allende has been the leading scorer in the playoffs, netting an impressive eight goals in five games this postseason, tying a league record set in 2022.
Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets: The Spanish legends, who played alongside Messi for years at FC Barcelona, are both playing in their final game today, having each announced their retirement. Their Miami teammates no doubt would like to help them cap their stellar careers with a championship win.
