24 August 2023, Mumbai: In a thrilling US Open Cup 2023 semifinal clash on Wednesday night, Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, orchestrated an incredible comeback from a two-goal deficit to secure a thrilling victory over MLS-leading Cincinnati. The match culminated in a tense penalty shootout, with Inter Miami prevailing 5-4. Cincinnati had initially surged to a 2-0 lead, but Messi’s strategic playmaking resulted in two crucial assists, setting up goals by Leonardo Campana and leveling the score at 2-2. Despite Messi’s efforts, the game extended to extra time, where Josef Martínez’s strike gave Miami the lead. Cincinnati, however, managed to equalize once again through Yuya Kubo, forcing the game into penalty kicks.
A critical save by Drake Callender
As the tension reached its peak in the shootout, Messi confidently converted Miami’s first attempt, mirroring his influence throughout the game. Both teams exhibited perfect accuracy through four rounds. However, in a pivotal moment, Herons’ goalkeeper Drake Callender made a critical save against Nick Hagglund’s kick during the fifth round. Benjamin Cremaschi then stepped up and successfully converted his penalty kick, propelling Miami into the tournament final. Their opponent in the final will be determined by the outcome of the late semifinal match between Houston and Salt Lake, with the final scheduled for September 27.
Messi’s Impact
Notably, this game marked a rare occasion when Lionel Messi remained scoreless since his arrival at Inter Miami in late July. Despite being unable to find the back of the net, Messi’s impact was unmistakable. His first assist materialized from a well-executed free kick in the 68th minute, narrowing Miami’s deficit to 2-1. The maestro’s second assist showcased his precise delivery, as he provided a pinpoint cross into the box, setting up Campana’s crucial header that pushed the match into overtime. The game’s narrative was further enriched by Messi’s remarkable track record. Having netted an impressive 10 goals in his initial seven matches with Miami, he led the team to clinch the Leagues Cup title. Anticipation heightened as Messi was poised to make his Major League Soccer debut against the New York Red Bulls on Saturday.
Cincinnati a 1-0 lead
Cincinnati’s Luciano Acosta and Brandon Vazquez were the architects of their team’s initial goals. Acosta, the Argentine No. 10 and captain, demonstrated finesse early in the match, giving Cincinnati a 1-0 lead with a clever flick. This marked his 14th goal across all competitions that season. Vazquez, a forward for the US national team, doubled Cincinnati’s advantage in the 53rd minute with a powerful strike from outside the box. The goal, a result of a low cross from former Atletico Madrid and Colombia international defender Santiago Arias, showcased Cincinnati’s attacking prowess.