Techrectory
August 24, 2023 – Cincinnati, Ohio. In a stunning display of skill and determination, Inter Miami CF, led by the incomparable Lionel Messi, orchestrated a remarkable comeback to defeat FC Cincinnati and secure their place in the 2023 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Final.
The sold-out crowd of 25,513 at TQL Stadium witnessed a captivating match that ended in a 3-3 draw and was decided by penalty kicks, showcasing Messi’s brilliance and resilience.
Trailing by a daunting 2-0 deficit after the hour mark, Messi took center stage, delivering two exquisite assists to his teammate Leonardo Campana, bringing the score level and forcing extra time.
Despite Cincinnati’s relentless efforts, the heroics continued as Josef Martínez slotted home a crucial goal in the 93rd minute of extra time, giving Inter Miami a tantalizing 3-2 lead.
However, FC Cincinnati answered with determination, as Yuya Kubo‘s strike in the 114th minute sent the match into a thrilling penalty shootout.
The spotlight then turned to Inter Miami’s goalkeeper, Drake Callender, whose save against Cincinnati native Nick Hagglund proved pivotal.
Benjamin Cremaschi’s subsequent successful penalty secured a 5-4 shootout victory for Inter Miami, propelling them to their first U.S. Open Cup Final and marking their second championship match of 2023.
Inter Miami’s journey to the final has been underscored by Messi’s sensational form, with the Argentine maestro amassing an astonishing 13 goal involvements in his first eight appearances for the club.
After his instrumental role in securing the Leagues Cup last weekend, Messi’s exceptional play and leadership have solidified Inter Miami as strong contenders for the upcoming US Open Cup Final against the Houston Dynamo on September 27.
The electrifying atmosphere in Cincinnati was amplified by Messi’s moments of brilliance, including a mesmerizing last-minute assist that commentator Ray Hudson aptly described as, “The madness of Messi arrives! Astonishing pass!
He doesn’t pull rabbits out of his magic hat, he pulls kangaroos!” Such displays of genius have rekindled the world’s admiration for Messi, reaffirming his status as a football legend.
Inter Miami’s dramatic victory, coupled with Messi’s magic, has not only secured a place in soccer history but has also reignited the belief that the 36-year-old icon remains one of the sport’s greatest talents.
As the team sets its sights on the US Open Cup Final, Messi’s influence continues to shape Inter Miami’s path towards potential glory.
