‘Don’t really care’ – Lionel Messi’s absence means nothing to Houston Dynamo boss as Ben Olsen revels in U.S. Open Cup glory

Much of the pre-match build-up ahead of a showpiece fixture in Florida had focused on the fitness of seven-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi and whether he would be ready to play any part. In the end, injury restricted the Argentine icon to a spectator role at DRV PNK Stadium.

Inter Miami were also without former Barcelona defender Jordi Alba, as they attempted to add another trophy to their historic Leagues Cup triumph from back in August, and Tata Martino’s side were unable to get the job done with key figures stuck in the stands.

That has not taken any of the shine off Houston’s success for head coach Olsen, with the Dynamo good value for their 2-1 win. Olsen told CBS Sports of only being able to beat what is in front of you: “You can't always play a full game at a really high level. This team's hard. If you don't stick the knife in when you get a third chance, a fourth chance, you know they're going to continue to come back. There's too much quality on that field. They were missing a player or two, but I don't really care. I don't really care.”

The Dynamo are now celebrating their first trophy win since 2018, with Olsen’s appointment in 2022 being vindicated, while Inter Miami’s focus has been narrowed on a bid to reach the MLS play-offs – with Messi set to step back in at some stage as he returns to full match fitness.