In a remarkable turn of events on Wednesday, Inter Miami, spearheaded by the football legend Lionel Messi, overcame FC Cincinnati in the US Open Cup's semi-final stage. This enthralling encounter was ultimately decided on penalties, with Inter Miami clinching a 5-4 victory after the game concluded in a 3-3 deadlock.
FC Cincinnati appeared to have gained the upper hand initially after Luciano Acosta broke the deadlock in the 18th minute. The lead was soon doubled courtesy of Brandon Vazquez in the second half as the match seemed to be drifting out of Inter Miami's grasp.
Messi struggled initially to stamp his authority on the game as FC Cincinnati's tactical approach succeeded in nullifying his usual attacking flair, preventing him from even registering a shot on goal. Yet, the Argentine maestro proved why he is considered among the greatest, by influencing the game in alternative ways.
In the 68th minute, a mesmerising free-kick assist from Messi found Leonardo Campana, who converted the opportunity and reinvigorated Inter Miami's hopes. As the final whistle neared, Messi, ever the saviour, crafted another majestic pass to Campana during injury time. This vital link-up ensured the scores were levelled, pushing the game into extra time.
Not long into the extended period, in the 93rd minute, Josef Martinez propelled Inter Miami into the lead, utilising a superb assist from Benjamin Cremaschi. FC Cincinnati's spirit remained unbroken, demonstrated when Yuya Kubo netted an equaliser in the 114th minute.
As tensions soared in the 119th minute, all eyes were on Messi, who took a decisive free-kick. However, Cincinnati's defence rose to the challenge, delivering an impeccable save. With regular play ending inconclusively, a penalty shootout became the tie-breaker. Messi, exuding confidence, was the first to take the shot for Inter Miami and converted successfully. The pressure intensified as both squads netted their initial four penalties.
The climax approached when Drake Callender, Inter Miami's goalkeeper, heroically thwarted FC Cincinnati's fifth penalty. It then fell to Benjamin Cremaschi to send Inter Miami into the final, which he accomplished with aplomb.
This triumph solidifies Messi's sterling record with Inter Miami, having remained undefeated since his arrival during the summer transfer window. The team now gears up for their second successive final, following their victory in the Leagues Cup.
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