In a dramatic US Open Cup semifinal, Inter Miami edged Cincinnati in an away clash after a 3-3 draw in regular time, finally prevailing 5-4 in the deciding penalties. The match showcased a potent attacking display from Inter Miami, led by Leonardo Campana who struck twice, while Josef Martinez added a third goal to seal the impact of their attacking line. Messi, while failing to find the net from open play for the first time in his United States stint spanning seven appearances, still contributed two assists, underscoring his influence in build-up play and creativity even when the ball wouldn’t cross the goal line for him personally.
With the victory, Inter Miami earned a place in the tournament final, where they would meet the victor of the Houston Dynamo versus Real Salt Lake encounter. The path to the championship had been steep, but the club’s depth and star power provided a clear narrative: a team built to compete on multiple fronts could translate regular-season form into crucial knockout results when it mattered most.
Entering the match, Messi had tallied 10 goals and 3 assists across eight appearances for Inter Miami, a testament to the immediate impact he has had since arriving. The club had already celebrated its first major American trophy a few days earlier when it secured the Leagues Cup by defeating Nashville SC in a tense final that went to a penalties shootout, ending 10-9 in favor of Inter Miami. The victory marked a milestone in the club’s history and solidified Messi’s role in a successful, growing project in Major League Soccer.
Messi’s move from Paris Saint-Germain to Inter Miami in the summer of 2023 marked a new chapter in his storied career. He debuted for the MLS club with a memorable free-kick, signaling that his presence would not just lift the team’s profile but also influence the level of play and expectations around the league. Since joining, he has contributed in both obvious and subtle ways, elevating teammates and raising the bar for what is considered possible in a league that continues to attract global attention.
As talks about the future continue, there is no public declaration about retirement on the horizon. The discussions surrounding Messi’s long-term plans remain speculative, with the focus currently on performances, trophies, and the ongoing competition schedule. Inter Miami’s ambitions, bolstered by his arrival, point toward sustained competition at high levels, both domestically and in international club tournaments, as the club builds toward a durable and winning culture in American soccer.