US Open Cup Semi-Final 2023: FC Cincinnati vs Inter Miami: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Lionel Messi’s side have the chance to reach another cup final

Excitement brews as Cincinnati and Inter Miami clash this Wednesday at TQL Stadium. It’s the 2023 MLS Open Cup semi-final, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. The victors of this duel have a golden ticket: facing either Houston Dynamo or Real Salt Lake in the grand final.

Inter Miami arrives with their tails up, boasting impeccable form. Their recent track record is impressive, with a seven-match winning spree, all in the Leagues Cup. They’re not just riding on momentum; they’re galloping with confidence, especially after clinching their maiden trophy. Last weekend, Miami tasted a sweet victory by besting Nashville in the Leagues Cup final. The question now lingers: Can they replicate this success in the US Open Cup?

But let’s not forget FC Cincinnati. Despite recent wobbles, including two consecutive losses – one being a devastating 3-0 to Columbus – they’ve shown their mettle. They’ve clinched 15 victories out of 24 in the MLS league matches. Their league position? An enviable top spot in the Eastern Conference table. And the journey there wasn’t quiet. Their attacking prowess resonated with 39 goals, ensuring opponents never rest easy.

Cincinnati’s route to the semi-final tells a tale of tenacity. They kick-started their US Open Cup journey by defeating Louisville City. What followed were triumphs over formidable teams: New York City, New York Red Bulls, and the Pittsburgh Riverhounds.

Contrasting Cincinnati’s journey, Inter Miami’s recent surge is a plot twist. The arrival of Lionel Messi, the Argentinian maestro, transformed the team’s narrative. Under Gerardo Martino’s leadership, Inter Miami evolved from underdogs to titans. Their previous US Open Cup conquests include victories over Miami FC, Charleston Battery, Nashville, and Birmingham Legion. This track record presents them as a formidable challenge for Cincinnati.

Both teams’ journeys to this pivotal match are a blend of struggle and triumph. Cincinnati, though experiencing a dip in form lately, shouldn’t be underestimated. Their position at the top of the table and their journey to the semi-final underlines their quality. On the other hand, Inter Miami, boosted by their recent successes and the Messi factor, will enter the game with a bullish confidence.

As the clock ticks closer to kickoff at TQL Stadium, the atmosphere will be electric. The fans will expect, hope, and pray for their team’s success. For Cincinnati, it’s a chance to regain lost momentum and prove naysayers wrong. For Inter Miami, it’s an opportunity to add another chapter to their newfound glory.

So, who will emerge victorious and set their sights on the final? Will Cincinnati leverage their home advantage and league successes? Or will Inter Miami’s sparkling form and recent accolades prove too much for the hosts?

The semi-final promises drama, excitement, and top-tier football. This is more than just a match; it’s a battle for glory and pride. As Cincinnati and Inter Miami go head-to-head, the football world watches with bated breath, eager for the thrilling spectacle that awaits.

Kick-off

24th August (Thursday) at 4:30 am IST at the TQL Stadium.

Form:

Cincinnati: W-L-W-W-W

Inter Miami: W-W-W-W-W

Players To Watch:

Brandon Vazquez (Cincinnati):

For Cincinnati, all eyes will be on Brandon Vazquez. The dynamic forward, known for his agility and swift movements, has been instrumental in crucial games. His ability to find pockets of space and deliver clinical finishes has won admiration. With his knack for being at the right place at the right time, Vazquez’s role in unsettling Miami’s defence will be crucial. Cincinnati supporters will hope he rises to the occasion once again.

Lionel Messi (Inter Miami):

On the other hand, Inter Miami boasts the legend, Lionel Messi. A maestro on the field, Messi’s skills are unparalleled. His dribbling, vision, and knack for producing moments of magic make him a constant threat. While his reputation precedes him, it’s his consistent brilliance that worries opponents. Messi’s presence on the pitch can change the game’s dynamics entirely. He has been scoring in practically every game for Inter Miami. As these two footballing talents collide, spectators can expect a memorable showcase of skill and passion.

Trending World Football Articles:

• Top five most valuable squads in football
• Top 10 players with biggest rating upgrade in EA FC 24
• Ranking the favourites to win Best FIFA Men’s Player Award 2023
• Top five favourites to win Serie A 2023-24 based on odds
• Top 10 footballers who were banned for doping

Injury And Team News:

Yerson Mosquera, Stiven Jimenez, and Badji will miss the game for Cincinnati.

Robinson, Sailor, Stefanelli, Negri, Jean, Mora, and Gregore won’t play for Inter Miami,

Head-To-Head:

Matches Played: 7

Cincinnati Won: 2

Inter Miami Won: 4

Draw: 1

Predicted Line-Up:

Cincinnati (3412):

Roman Celentano, Raymon Gaddis, Matt Miazga, Nick Hagglund, Luis Arias, Junior Moreno, Uche Nwobodo, Alvas Powell, George Acosta, Brandon Vazquez, Aaron Boupendza

Inter Miami (433):

Drake Callender, DeAndre Yedlin, Seam Miller, Mykola Kryvtsov, Jordi Alba, Christian Arroyo, Sergio Busquets, Matias Cremaschi, Lionel Messi, Josef Martinez, Matt Taylor

Match Prediction for FC Cincinnati vs Inter Miami:

Diving into match predictions, Inter Miami has showcased a clear intent every time they’ve taken to the field: they play to win. Their strategy is unlikely to alter for this match. Expect the Herons to bring their aggressive game, launching assaults and pressing Cincinnati relentlessly from the opening whistle.

The home side will feel the absence of key players like Mosquera and Badji. Though significant losses, one could argue that even with their presence, Cincinnati would still face an uphill battle against a rampaging Miami. Given the teams’ current dynamics and the sheer firepower Miami boasts, we predict an assertive dominance by the visitors.

Match Prediction: Cincinnati 1-4 Inter Miami.

Telecast for FC Cincinnati vs Inter Miami

India- No Telecast

UK- CBS Sports Golazo Network

US- CBS Sports Golazo Network, Paramount+, Pluto TV

Nigeria- No Telecast

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and join our community on Telegram.