Leo Messi Sparks Inter Miami’s Comeback Over Fc Cincinnati To Reach The U.S. Open Cup Final

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Lionel Messi came through with two outstanding assists and a decisive penalty when Inter Miami needed him the most, propelling his team to the US Open Cup final.

Since his arrival at Inter Miami, co-owned by Jorge Mas and David Beckham, Messi has maintained an unbeaten record. His impact on the team’s performance has been significant.

Inter Miami had been enjoying an exceptional winning streak, securing seven consecutive victories, including clinching their inaugural trophy in the Leagues Cup. This successful run has marked a remarkable beginning for Messi’s tenure with the team, following his signing of a two-and-a-half-year contract in July.

Despite facing FC Cincinnati in the U.S Open Cup semi-final just four days after the Leagues Cup final against Nashville, Messi’s influence proved crucial in guiding Inter Miami to the final of the tournament.

However, it looked as though they were heading to defeat against FC Cincinnati in the US Open Cup semi final.

Messi’s side had struggled for much of the game, and found themselves two goals down.

Cincinnati went ahead in the first half through Luciano Acosta and looked fairly dominant throughout.

They doubled their lead in the 53rd minute through Brandon Vazquez, and Miami looked like they were heading out of the cup.

But Messi had other ideas.

In the 68th minute, Messi took charge and delivered a magnificent free kick that connected with Leonardo Campana’s head, resulting in a goal for Inter Miami.

As injury time approached, it seemed as though Messi might be facing his first defeat since joining the team. However, he once again demonstrated his penchant for clutch moments. From around 35 yards out, the former Barcelona star executed a remarkable pass over the top, perfectly finding the head of Campana to secure an equalizing goal for Miami.

The equaliser came in the 97th minute sending the semi-final into extra time.

Even with tired legs throughout their squad, momentum was with the Miami side as became more than clear early into the added 30.

Josef Martinez was played through on goal in the 93rd minute and slotted the ball into the net to give Inter Miami the 3-2 lead.

It signalled a complete turnaround for the side who seemed intent on continuing their fantastic run.

However, a Yuya Kabo goal for Cincinnati in the 114th minute meant the game was heading to penalties.

It was Miami’s second penalty shootout in as many games.

Lionel Messi would convert his penalty as Miami secured a perfect five penalties to give them the win.

Nick Hagglund would have his penalty saved by Drake Callender with Benjamin Cremaschi scoring the deciding spot kick.

Messi’s heroics throughout the game would open up the door for a brilliant comeback in the semi-final.

Messi and Inter Miami are now into their second cup final since his signing in July.

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