The Rise of Lionel Messi: Examining the 2023 U.S. Open Cup Odds and Predictions

Analysis and Predictions for the U.S. Open Cup 2023: Lionel Messi and Inter Miami

Introduction

Lionel Messi, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, has been in outstanding form since he joined Inter Miami of Major League Soccer (MLS). With 10 goals and an assist in his first seven matches, Messi has played a significant role in Inter Miami’s journey to win the Leagues Cup title, which marked the team’s first trophy. Now, the soccer legend and Inter Miami are preparing for a U.S. Open Cup semifinal match against MLS opponent FC Cincinnati. The question arises: can Messi maintain his impressive performance? This analysis will examine the odds for the U.S. Open Cup match and offer insights and predictions from FOX Sports Betting Analyst Jason McIntyre.

Match Details and Betting Odds

The U.S. Open Cup semifinal match between Inter Miami CF and FC Cincinnati is scheduled to take place on Wednesday night at 7 p.m. ET. The match can be watched on Peacock or Paramount+.

Below are the current betting odds for this match:

– Moneyline: Inter Miami CF +105 (bet $10 to win $20.50 total); FC Cincinnati +195 (bet $10 to win $29.50 total)
– Draw: +270 (bet $10 to win $37 total)
– Over/Under 2.5 goals: Over -205 (bet $10 to win $14.88 total); Under +144 (bet $10 to win $24.40 total)

The Public’s Betting Trends

Given Lionel Messi’s exceptional performance, the public has heavily favored Inter Miami in their betting:

– To advance: Inter Miami -130 (95% of tickets, 99% of handle)
– Messi to score anytime goal: -145 (bet $10 to win $16.90 total)
– Messi to score first goal: +280 (bet $10 to win $38 total)
– Messi to score two or more goals: +350 (bet $10 to win $45 total)
– Lionel Messi to score three or more goals: +1400 (bet $10 to win $150 total)
– Messi to score a hat trick: +1200 (bet $10 to win $130 total)
– Messi to be named Man of the Match: -165 (bet $10 to win $16.06 total)

Predictions

According to FOX Sports Betting Analyst Jason McIntyre, Inter Miami, buoyed by their recent victory in the Leagues Cup, will face FC Cincinnati, the top team in the MLS standings. Despite Cincinnati’s unbeaten home record (11-0-1), they are considered underdogs against the Lionel Messi-led Inter Miami team.

McIntyre suggests that there may be some fatigue and a potential letdown for Inter Miami after their celebrations for winning the Leagues Cup. On the other hand, Cincinnati has had a long break between games, with their previous match being a 3-0 loss to the Columbus Crew.

Given Inter Miami’s impressive form, McIntyre predicts that Messi and his teammates will continue their winning streak. He advises bettors to take advantage of Messi’s current goal-scoring streak and bet on him to score anytime. He also recommends betting on Inter Miami to win the match outright. As for the correct score, McIntyre predicts a 2-1 victory for Inter Miami.

Conclusion

As Lionel Messi and Inter Miami clash with FC Cincinnati in the U.S. Open Cup semifinals, there is considerable excitement and anticipation surrounding Messi’s performance. His outstanding goal-scoring record and the team’s recent Leagues Cup triumph have swayed the public’s bets heavily in favor of Inter Miami. However, it’s worth noting that FC Cincinnati has an unbeaten home record and could present a tough challenge.

As with any game, there are uncertainties and factors that could affect the outcome. Fatigue and potential celebrations may impact Inter Miami’s performance, while FC Cincinnati’s well-rested team could pose a surprise. Nevertheless, Lionel Messi’s current form and Inter Miami’s confidence make them the favorites.

It remains to be seen whether Messi will continue his exceptional goal-scoring streak in the U.S. Open Cup. Bettors should carefully consider the odds and expert predictions before placing their bets, as there are always risks involved.