Argentinian star Lionel Messi is just one win away from claiming his second title with his new team, Inter Miami, after qualifying for the final of the U.S. Open Cup by defeating Cincinnati in a penalty shootout 5-4. Previously, Messi led Inter Miami to its first-ever title last Saturday, winning the League Cup final against Nashville in a penalty shootout (10-9) after a 1-1 draw, putting him just one victory away from a second title with his new team.
The U.S. Open Cup is one of the oldest soccer competitions in the United States, having started in 1914, and is similar to the FA Cup in England and the Copa del Rey in Spain. Inter Miami will face Houston Dynamo in the final scheduled for September 27, after Houston defeated Real Salt Lake (3-1) following extra time (1-1 in regulation).
Just a month ago, the prospect of making it to the final seemed completely within reach for Cincinnati, as they were at the top of the standings in the league, while Inter Miami was in last place. However, Messi's arrival changed the team's trajectory, which had gone 11 consecutive league matches without a victory.
