By Alonso Contreras The final U.S. Open Cup match just saw the absence of the world's best player, Lionel Messi, along with his key partner, Jordi Alba, who was sidelined due to injury, only Busquets remained from this formidable trio.
Houston's midfield was orchestrated by Carrasquilla and Herrera, both excelling in defensive duties, ball distribution, and contributing to the team's attacking plays.
In the 10th minute of the first half, Quinones made a brilliant run down the right wing and, upon entering the penalty area, unleashed a shot that was expertly blocked by Miller. It was a moment that could have easily marked Houston's first goal of the night.
Franco Escobar received a yellow card in the 12th minute, putting the Texan side in a precarious situation.
Krystosv received a yellow card as well, after fouling Carrasquilla in the 16th minute, thereby early on compromising Inter Miami's defensive stability.
Quinones, emerging as Houston's most potent threat, not only took a shot but also delivered a dangerous cross, with the subsequent header narrowly missing the target.
Inter Miami received another yellow card, this time for right back Noah Allen, in the 18th minute.
Carrasquilla then delivered an exceptionally dangerous cross, causing the Inter Miami goalkeeper to stretch to intercept the pass. However, the ball rebounded off his central defender and resulted in a corner kick.
In the opening twenty minutes, it was clear that Houston was the more menacing team on the field.
What a saved by Callender with a brilliant stop, following a mishandled ball reception that led to a shot, showcased his skill, though he was left helpless on one attempt.
Houston eventually found the back of the net with a superbly executed goal, orchestrated masterfully from one side to the other, ultimately finding Dynamo's right back who delivered an unstoppable shot, leaving the Inter Miami goalkeeper with no chance.
Second Goal By Houston Dynamo
Houston Dynamo was close to scoring the third one of the night, but the shot passed near the post
Houston displayed an abundance of skillful football in the first half, adeptly employing the "Tiki-Taka" style of play, whether under pressure from the opposing team or not.
The second half commenced with heightened vigor from the home team, yet Houston effectively managed their physical condition and maintained a solid defensive performance.
Josef Martinez came close to netting the first goal of the evening when his header, following a free-kick from his teammate, narrowly missed the post. It was a moment that had the Inter Miami supporters singing "Oh Vamos Inter Vamos..." in anticipation, but the elusive goal remained just out of reach.
In the 70th minute, Inter Miami narrowly escaped conceding their third goal of the night when a perilous cross eluded both goalkeeper Callender and the oncoming Houston player.
Carrasquilla's talent is truly remarkable. It wouldn't be surprising to witness him making a move to Europe next year, given his exceptional abilities.
In the 79th minute, a contentious incident unfolded, as Inter Miami's David Ruiz appeared to tug Brad Smith into the penalty area.
In addition, a great pass from Farias to Josef Martinez to score 1-2 of the night and raise hopes of the great feat of the night. Campana was close to tying with a great header, but the Houston goalkeeper did very well.
Inter Miami CF was close to tie the game, but physically they looked exhausted. Even their Head Coach Tata Martino said it at the postgame press conference.
Houston Dynamo is the new Champions !
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