This article provides a detailed post-match analysis of the gripping encounter, highlighting Lionel Messi’s exceptional double assists that played a pivotal role in Inter Miami’s victory.
Match Overview:
Inter Miami emerged triumphant in a nail-biting penalty shootout, clinching a momentous place in the 2023 US Open Cup final. Going head-to-head against Cincinnati FC, Inter Miami displayed immense determination and resilience to emerge victorious with a 5-4 scoreline in the penalty shootout.
First Half Insights:
The initial phases of the match saw Cincinnati FC asserting dominance in ball possession and creating scoring opportunities.
In the 18th minute, Inter Miami’s momentary lapse in defense allowed Acosta of Cincinnati to net a goal, giving the home team an early lead. Despite Cincinnati’s advantage, they relinquished control of the game shortly after securing the lead.
Challenges for Inter Miami:
Inter Miami, led by the guidance of HLV Tata Martino, faced challenges in the first half. Lionel Messi found himself closely marked, leading to difficulties in connecting with his teammates. The team’s sluggish movement, imprecise passing, and wayward shots characterized their performance.
Second Half Resurgence:
The second half posed greater challenges as Cincinnati extended their lead to 2-0 in the 53rd minute. However, Inter Miami showcased resilience as Leonardo Campana capitalized on a precise Messi free-kick, heading the ball into the net in the 68th minute, reducing the deficit to 1-2. Despite Cincinnati’s missed opportunities, Campana once again found the net with a header in injury time, leveling the score.
Extra Time Drama:
With an aggregate score of 2-2, both teams entered extra time. A crucial strike from Martinez in the first period of extra time briefly handed Inter Miami the lead. However, Inter Miami’s fatigue resulted in Kubo’s equalizer for Cincinnati in the 114th minute, leading to a penalty shootout.
Penalty Shootout Intensity:
An intense penalty shootout ensued, with both teams converting their initial eight penalties. The final decisive moment saw Cincinnati FC miss a penalty, offering Cresmachi of Inter Miami the chance to seal victory. His successful strike secured a 5-4 shootout triumph for Inter Miami, propelling them into the US Open Cup final.
Conclusion and Player Ratings:
Lionel Messi earned the highest rating of 9.0 for his outstanding double assists, contributing significantly to Inter Miami’s comeback and shootout victory.
Leonardo Campana, with his two goals, received a rating of 8.2.
Sergio Busquets: 7.0
Gomez: 6.8
Alba: 6.6
Miller: 6.3
Kryvtsov: 7.2
Aviles: 6.3
Yedlin: 6.3
Ruiz: 6.6
Farias: 6.8
Taylor: 6.5
Allen: 6.6
Martinez: 7.4
Cremaschi: 6.8
As Inter Miami advances to the final, their remarkable victory against Cincinnati FC underscores their resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
With a potential championship on the horizon, the spotlight remains on their quest for glory and the coveted US Open Cup trophy.
