Lionel Messi just keeps doing Lionel Messi things. On Sunday night he proved the age-old adage that a good defense is the best offense.

Picault’s first goal this season came in his second appearance with an assist from defender Jordi Alba — his second — in the 89th minute.

The best-of-three series ended the Herons' season early after they had set an MLS record with a haul of 74 points in the regular season. Messi went on to be named 2024 MLS MVP, but the more important team trophy eluded him.