United States international Brandon Vazquez asked Lionel Messi to sign his shirt after seeing Inter Miami overcome FC Cincinnati in the U.S. Open Cup.

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Argentine superstar in knockout actionU.S. star suffered penalty shootout defeatMade the most of opportunity to meet legendWHAT HAPPENED?

The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner was at his match-altering best once again as he inspired a dramatic late comeback from Inter Miami that forced a thrilling cup clash into extra-time. He then helped his side to prevail on penalties and remain on course for another shot at silverware following their recent Leagues Cup triumph.

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Despite finding himself on the wrong end of another Messi masterclass, USMNT star Vazquez was happy to take advantage of an unexpected opportunity to rub shoulders with the all-time great. The Cincinnati forward did not even wait until heading down the tunnel before cornering Messi and asking him to sign what will become a prized memento.

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Messi was not among the goals in Inter Miami’s remarkable 3-3 draw with FC Cincinnati, but he did provide two assists – including one deep into second-half stoppage-time – before successfully converting from the spot in a dramatic shootout.

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Vazquez will be hoping to take inspiration from his meeting with Messi, with the 24-year-old having been in fine form himself of late – with a 19-goal haul last season being followed by a further 11 efforts in the current campaign, while also taking his tally of international strikes to four in eight appearances.