Published on 24.08.2023
Lionel Messi shines with a penalty goal as Inter Miami advances in a thrilling semi-final shootout.
Inter Miami orchestrated a remarkable comeback from a 2-0 deficit, securing their second final appearance since Lionel Messi’s induction into the MLS team last month.
The 36-year-old Argentine displayed his prowess by providing two assists during an exhilarating US Open Cup semi-final against FC Cincinnati, ultimately culminating in a 3-3 draw at the end of extra time.
Although this marked the first instance where Messi failed to find the net for Miami in his eighth match with the club, he displayed his composure by converting his penalty, propelling them to a 5-4 victory in the shootout in Ohio.
Adding to their recent success, Miami had triumphed over Nashville in a penalty shootout to clinch the Leagues Cup just days prior, securing the club’s maiden major title since its establishment as an expansion team in 2020.
Now, Inter Miami is poised to make their debut appearance in the final of the US Open Cup, the United States’ oldest and most prestigious knockout football tournament dating back to 1913. Set to face the Houston Dynamo on September 27, Miami’s journey to the final has been nothing short of remarkable.
Their rivals, FC Cincinnati, had topped the MLS standings when the season temporarily halted for the Leagues Cup in July, while Miami was positioned at the bottom. However, Miami has displayed an undefeated streak of eight games following the acquisition of Messi, along with his former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.
Once again, Messi assumed the role of catalyst for Miami’s resurgence. Just as he did on his debut, the Argentine maestro delivered another mesmerizing moment of brilliance to propel his team forward.
