Lionel Messi orchestrated a remarkable comeback for Inter Miami, propelling them to a thrilling victory over MLS-leading Cincinnati in the U.S. Open Cup semifinals. The match culminated in a nail-biting penalty shootout, with Inter Miami prevailing 5-4 after a 3-3 draw, securing their spot in the tournament final against Houston.
Despite a formidable 2-0 deficit early in the game, Messi’s influence on the field was undeniable. The Argentine prodigy showcased his playmaking genius, assisting on two crucial goals that turned the tide in favor of the Herons. His first assist set up Leonardo Campana’s strike in the 68th minute, and his second masterful pass to Campana in stoppage time forced the game into extra time.
The rollercoaster of emotions continued as Josef Martínez surged ahead to give Miami a 3-2 lead just three minutes into extra time. However, FC Cincinnati wasn’t ready to surrender, and Yuya Kubo managed to equalize once again in the 114th minute, prolonging the heart-pounding contest.
When the match moved to the penalty shootout, Messi stepped up to the spot, calmly slotting home his shot and setting the tone for the intense face-off. Both teams remained flawless in their execution until Inter Miami’s goalkeeper Drake Callender made a crucial save, denying FC Cincinnati’s chance. Benjamin Cremaschi took advantage of the opportunity, converting his penalty and securing Inter Miami’s dramatic triumph.
“We are living the dream,” expressed Cremaschi in a post-match interview, capturing the euphoria and excitement that engulfed the team after this hard-fought victory. Benjamin Cremaschi, hailing from Miami, embarked on an exceptional soccer journey that showcased a series of remarkable triumphs from an early age. His path to success began in 2021 when he secured victory with the Weston Academy team in the U16 MLS Next Cup, solidifying his pivotal role within the squad. Demonstrating toughness and skill, he played a crucial part in leading the Inter Miami U17s to victory in the Generation Adidas Cup. In a testament to his rapid progression, Benjamin signed a professional contract with Inter Miami at the age of 17 in 2022, affirming his status as a budding talent. Transitioning to the senior level, he seized his moment of glory during the Leagues Cup by delivering a match-winning penalty that propelled his team into the semifinals. His reputation for performing under pressure held true once again, as he expertly converted a clutch penalty, securing his team’s victory in the U.S Open Cup final.
The Herons, who had been enjoying an unbeaten streak of eight matches with Messi leading the charge, continued their remarkable form, a testament to the transformative impact of the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner since his arrival just last month.
Inter Miami’s journey to the U.S. Open Cup final has been a journey for the ages. Despite their struggles in MLS, the team’s performances in tournaments have been nothing short of remarkable. With Messi at the helm, they’ve secured the Leagues Cup title and now find themselves on the cusp of another major achievement. It’s as if the scriptwriters of Messi’s journey are crafting a fairy-tale conclusion, one where for his final act, Messi’s arrival in America transforms the MLS underdogs into contenders within just eight matches, captivating the American audience with his sheer brilliance and making Americans fully embrace the beautiful game.
Speaking on those critics claiming that Inter Miami’s resurgence is “scripted” because of Messi, current co- owner and Inter Miami President, David Beckham said:
“Every time Messi scores one of these goals, every time Busi (Busquets) makes one of these passes, Every time Jordi (Alba) makes one of these runs, people say it’s a “fix”. It’s the biggest compliment anyone can give these players, because it’s like a movie.”
The U.S. Open Cup final, scheduled for September 27, promises to be an electrifying encounter as Inter Miami takes on Houston. Before the final, however, Miami will be squaring off against the New York Red Bulls on Saturday as Inter Miami resumes its regular season, aiming to maintain their unbeaten streak and build on the momentum generated by the arrival of Messi. If I were a betting man, I wouldn’t bet against the great Lionel Andres Messi at home with the U.S Open Cup on the line on September 27th. The script is still being written, expect a magical finish for Inter Miami and its author Lionel Messi.
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