Lionel Messi Leads Inter Miami to Victory in U.S. Open Cup Semis against FC Cincinnati

Lionel Messi leads Inter Miami to a dramatic victory in the U.S. Open Cup semifinals with a comeback and penalty shootout win.

In a thrilling U.S. Open Cup semifinals match, Lionel Messi played a pivotal role in leading Inter Miami to a dramatic comeback victory. Despite trailing 2-0, the Herons managed to score twice in the second half and once in extra time to force a penalty kick session. Messi assisted two goals by Leonardo Campana before netting the first shot of the shootout himself. The game ended with Benjamin Cremaschi's winning penalty kick, securing Inter Miami's place in the U.S. Open Cup finale on September 27.

Although Inter Miami currently sits in last place in the MLS, their fortunes have turned around since Messi joined the team in July. With a record of 8-0 in two tournaments, the team is experiencing a dream-like run. Cremaschi expressed his joy and excitement after the game, highlighting the team's incredible journey.

The match against FC Cincinnati started with an early advantage for the Orange and Blue, as they took the lead in the 18th minute with a goal by Luciano Acosta, assisted by Aaron Boupendza. FC Cincinnati then doubled their advantage in the 53rd minute when Brandon Vazquez scored with an assist from Santiago Arias. However, Messi's brilliance sparked a late comeback for Inter Miami.

In the 68th minute, Messi's free kick found Campana, who headed the ball into the net, reducing the deficit. The Herons continued to trail until the seventh minute of stoppage time when Messi delivered a perfectly placed pass to Campana, who scored the equalizer with another header. The team's first lead came in the 93rd minute when Jordi Alba assisted Cremaschi, who set up Josef Martinez for a goal.

FC Cincinnati managed to force extra time when Yuya Kubo scored in the second period. The game ultimately went to a penalty kick shootout, where both teams displayed their nerves of steel. Yuya Kubo scored FC Cincinnati's first penalty kick, but Messi quickly responded with a successful attempt of his own. The shootout continued with successful conversions from both teams, including goals by Santiago Arias, Facundo Farias, Matt Miazga, and Josef Martinez.

The decisive moment came when Inter Miami's goalkeeper, Drake Callender, saved a penalty kick from FC Cincinnati's Nick Hagglund. This set the stage for Cremaschi, who calmly stepped up and scored the game-winning shot, sealing Inter Miami's place in the U.S. Open Cup finale.

Despite their upcoming MLS game against the New York Red Bulls and a match against Nashville SC, all eyes are now on Inter Miami as they prepare to face the Houston Dynamo in the U.S. Open Cup finale. The team's remarkable journey, with Messi at the forefront, has captivated fans and created a sense of excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead.

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