(Cincinnati) Lionel Messi had two assists and converted his attempt into a penalty shootout to guide Inter Miami CF to a win over FC Cincinnati on Wednesday night in the US Cup semi-finals .
Inter Miami CF recovered from a two-goal deficit and allowed their opponents to tie the game in the second extra period, but eventually prevailed 5-4 on penalties following a tie of 3 -3.
FC Cincinnati built themselves a 2-0 lead before Messi set the table for Leonardo Campana’s two goals, which leveled the score at 2-2. Inter Miami CF took a 3-2 lead thanks to Josef Martinez’s goal in the first extra period, but in the 114th minute Yuya Kubo forced a penalty shootout.
Messi had Inter Miami CF’s first attempt and both teams were perfect after four waves of shooters. Florida squad goalie Drake Callender stood up to Nick Hagglund’s shot in the fifth round and Benjamin Cremaschi hit the target to send his team to the final of another tournament.
Inter Miami CF, which has just won the League Cup in a penalty shootout, will face the winner of the duel between Houston Dynamo and Real Salt Lake in the final. The final will take place on September 27.
Messi failed to find the back of the net for the first time since joining Inter Miami CF at the end of July. He is due to make his MLS debut on Saturday against the New York Red Bulls.
Luciano Acosta and Brandon Vazquez scored FC Cincinnati’s first two goals.
