'Messi's Stellar Performance Propels Inter Miami to Victory over MLS-Leading Cincinnati in U.S. Open Cup Semifinal Epic'

Lionel Messi leads Inter Miami to a comeback victory in the U.S. Open Cup semifinal, scoring two assists and a penalty kick.

In a thrilling U.S. Open Cup semifinal match, Lionel Messi showcased his brilliance by providing two assists and converting a crucial penalty kick to lead Inter Miami to a remarkable comeback victory over MLS-leading Cincinnati. The match ended in a 5-4 penalty shootout win for Miami after the game was tied 3-3 in regular time.

Cincinnati started the game strong, taking a commanding 2-0 lead. However, Messi's influence soon came into play as he orchestrated two goals by Leonardo Campana, leveling the score at 2-2. Miami then took the lead in the first extra period when Josef Martínez found the back of the net just three minutes in. Cincinnati, refusing to give up, equalized in the 114th minute through Yuya Kubo, forcing the match into penalty kicks.

Messi stepped up to take Miami's first penalty and successfully converted it. Both teams remained flawless in their penalty kicks until the fifth round when Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender made a crucial save on Nick Hagglund's shot. Benjamin Cremaschi then calmly converted his penalty to secure Miami's place in yet another tournament final.

Miami will now face the winner of the semifinal match between Houston and Salt Lake in the final, scheduled for September 27. It promises to be an exciting showdown as Miami looks to add another trophy to their collection.

Despite not finding the back of the net himself in this match, Messi's impact was undeniable. He provided his first assist of the game on a well-executed free kick in the 68th minute, reducing Miami's deficit to 2-1. Later, he delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, setting up Campana's second goal with a powerful header that sent the game into overtime.

This performance marked the first time Messi was held scoreless since joining Inter Miami in late July. However, his overall contributions to the team cannot be understated. In his first seven games with Miami, he scored an impressive 10 goals, leading the team to victory in the Leagues Cup. Fans eagerly anticipate his Major League Soccer debut this Saturday against the New York Red Bulls.

Cincinnati, on the other hand, had their own standout performers. Luciano Acosta and Brandon Vazquez were the catalysts for their team's early lead. Acosta, the Argentine No. 10 and captain, showcased his skill with a clever flick to score the opening goal. Vazquez, a talented forward for the U.S. national team, doubled Cincinnati's lead with a sensational strike from outside the box.

Ultimately, it was a thrilling and unpredictable match that showcased the resilience and talent of both teams. The rollercoaster of emotions, from Cincinnati's early lead to Miami's stunning comeback, made for an enthralling spectacle. As the tournament progresses, fans eagerly await the final to witness more captivating moments and see if Messi can continue to make his mark on American soccer.

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