Lionel Messi forced Inter Miami into extra time in the US Open Cup semifinal with two superb assists.

The World Cup champion has not suffered a defeat since relocating to the United States as a member of the Jorge Mas and David Beckham-owned team.\

The Argentinian had been a part of the Miami team since July, when he signed a two and a half-year deal.

For life with Messi in their ranks, seven straight triumphs were a terrific start, including the first League Cup victory in franchise history.

Prior to playing FC Cincinnati in the U.S. Open Cup semifinal, Messi’s team has not appeared crisp.

It was a quick turnaround after playing Nashville in the Leagues Cup final four days earlier.

Cincinnati took the lead right on thanks to a goal from Luciano Acosta, and they kept up a largely dominant presence after that.They appeared to be eliminating Miami from the cup as Brandon Vazquez scored again in the 53rd minute.

As he has done numerous times before, Messi went above and above to help his team get back into the game.

Miami was given a free kick in the 68th minute, and the Argentinian stepped up to shoot a stunning pass that ricocheted off Leonardo Campana’s head and into the goal.Cincinnati seemed to be headed for a significant victory, but Messi had other ideas.With the ball around 35 yards from the goal, the former Barcelona player fired a stunning shot over the top and back into Campana’s head to tie the score for Miami.