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Since his arrival, Lionel Messi has woven an intricate tapestry of success with Inter Miami, either finding the back of the net or orchestrating goals through assists in every single match.
In a recent US Open semi-final clash against Cincinnati, Messi's brilliance was on full display as he not only ignited a stirring Inter Miami comeback from a two-goal deficit but also propelled them to a triumphant victory of 5-4 on penalties, following a 3-3 draw in regular time and extra-time.
Inter Miami, who had previously clinched the Leagues Cup by prevailing in a penalty shootout against Nashville, now stand at the precipice of their second championship since the iconic Argentine maestro graced their ranks a month ago.
While Cincinnati occupies the apex of the Major League Soccer standings, Inter Miami's position in the league has undergone a dramatic transformation since Messi's arrival. Previously mired in an 11-game winless streak, the Florida-based football club has been reborn, spearheaded not only by Messi's magic but also fortified by the arrivals of Spanish duo Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.
In a face-off against a formidable Cincinnati side, Inter Miami found themselves trailing by two goals with a mere 22 minutes left on the clock. It was at this critical juncture that Messi orchestrated a mesmerizing turnaround, delivering two exquisite assists to striker Leonardo Campana, effectively steering the contest into extra time. Prior to this pivotal juncture, Cincinnati had surged ahead with goals from Luciano Acosta and Brandon Vazquez in the 18th and 53rd minutes, respectively. However, Messi's intervention proved pivotal. In the 68th minute, his expertly executed free-kick from the left found the head of Campana, rekindling Inter Miami's hopes.
As stoppage time loomed large, Messi conjured another moment of magic. Sending in a precision cross from the left, he aimed for Campana, who positioned himself at the back post. The Ecuadorian striker's emphatic header breathed new life into the game, forcing it into extra time.
Extra time witnessed Inter Miami seizing the initiative. A well-weighted pass from Benjamin Cremaschi found Josef Martinez, who made no mistake in delivering a clinical finish, giving Inter Miami the lead. However, Cincinnati displayed resilience, equalizing in the 114th minute through a sublime right-footed strike from Japanese winger Yuya Kubo.
Among the many standout moments of the game was the match-winning penalty shootout, where 18-year-old Miami-born talent Benjamin Cremaschi, hailing from Argentine heritage, sealed the victory. Messi, a driving force throughout, was quick to congratulate Cremaschi, whose meteoric rise left him humbled. Reflecting on his journey, Cremaschi shared, "I'm living a huge dream. Sometimes I sit down and really think about the position that I'm in, and it's incredible. I never believed I was going to be in the spot I am in now."
Inter Miami's next challenge will see them face off against Houston Dynamo in the US Open final, following Dynamo's 3-1 victory over Real Salt Lake in the other riveting semi-final encounter. As Messi continues to orchestrate miracles, Inter Miami's trajectory is poised for greater heights in the days ahead.
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Post time 24-8-2023 16:54:40