WATCH: USMNT and Cincinnati forward Brandon Vazquez asks Lionel Messi to sign his shirt after Inter Miami U.S. Open Cup semi-final

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.

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.

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.

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.