The world may only now be truly getting used to U.S. soccer through Messi’s arrival in the MLS. Nevertheless, Argentina’s number 10 playing in America’s oldest ongoing soccer tournament provides unspoken context for new or uninformed U.S. soccer fans.
The tournament that commenced in 1913 has witnessed remarkable moments, including a match that potentially propelled Cincinnati from the USL to the MLS. An opponent that has remained the most consistent and dominant team in the MLS, with “Lucho” Acosta widely regarded as the best player before Leo Messi’s arrival.
When asked whether his star number 10 would start, “Tata” Martino, the head coach of Inter Miami, emphasized the significance of the U.S. Open Cup. The coach’s statements and Messi’s eagerness eradicated any doubt that Messi came to the MLS for reasons other than his genuine love for the game and his belief that it was the right career move.
Messi it’s not just aiding soccer’s growth in the United States, the 36-year-old is contributing to a tradition that predates even the U.S. Open Cup’s 1913. And from the looks of it, he shows no signs of slowing down.
Speaking with Favian Renkel, Messi shared,”I still don’t think about that if I am being honest. I like to play, I enjoy being with a ball on the field, competing, training and I don’t know how much longer I’m going to play, but I think I’ll try to take advantage while I can. I think there’s time to think, analyse and choose. Today the most important thing is to enjoy what’s left, I don’t want to regret anything.”
In the Leagues Cup final, Messi scored a goal of the highest quality. If Messi does win two of our biggest cups and scores in every game we should enjoy and celebrate it, not look for reasons to discredit the league or tournaments. Let’s all enjoy a U.S. Open Cup with two of the most in-form teams and the worlds greatest player.
FBD | Tony DesRois
