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Aug. 24 (UPI) — Lionel Messi played a pivotal role in Inter Miami’s dramatic victory over FC Cincinnati in the U.S. Open Cup semifinals on Wednesday. Messi assisted two goals and scored the deciding penalty kick, leading the Herons to a come-from-behind win.
The Herons were down 2-0 but managed to score twice in the second half and again in extra time. They ultimately won the penalty kick shootout 5-4, with striker Benjamin Cremaschi securing the victory with his successful shot in the fifth round.
“We are living the dream,” Cremaschi said on the CBS broadcast. “I’m enjoying it.”
Despite their success in the U.S. Open Cup, Inter Miami is currently last in the MLS standings with only five wins in 22 regular-season games. However, they remain unbeaten in two tournaments since Messi joined the team in July.
In the match against FC Cincinnati, the opposing team took an early lead with a goal in the 18th minute. They extended their lead in the 53rd minute. But Messi sparked the comeback with a free kick that led to Inter Miami’s first goal, scored by Leonardo Campana in the 68th minute.
The Herons still trailed in extra time but managed to equalize with another goal from Campana, assisted by Jordi Alba. They then took the lead with a goal from veteran forward Josef Martinez.
The match ultimately went to a penalty shootout, where both teams converted their chances until Cremaschi secured the win for Inter Miami with a successful shot.
Inter Miami will face the New York Red Bulls in their next MLS game, followed by a match against Nashville SC. They will also compete in the U.S. Open Cup finale against the Houston Dynamo on September 27.
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