Dynamo meet Messi…maybe
(image via Getty Images)
Having the ability to play in a final is a work in progress. Like a video game, there are levels in which one must defeat what is in front of you to be able to proceed to the next foe before meeting the final boss. The Houston Dynamo did just that in this year’s Lamar Hunt US Open Cup run. It will be a historic night for all involved during the tournament’s final, but even more so when one, if not the greatest football player in the world, takes part in it. A match of enormous proportions, as two teams that no one would have imagined clashing when the year began.
Both Houston and Miami have seen a renaissance in 2023. Houston started a new era with the arrival of head coach Ben Olsen late last year, after a failed project with Paulo Nagamura at the helm. General manager Pat Ostand and Olsen worked quickly to bring in several new players to work alongside core pieces Coco Carrasquilla and Hector Herrera. A total of 18 players have joined the club since last November. Most of the new arrivals are players that have found success and won trophies with their past teams, as Houston’s front office looked at changing the culture. “It would be another step in the right direction for this club. It would mean that we're moving a little faster than maybe we thought in some ways, but there's a lot of work to do before I can picture that moment,” Ben Olsen said when asked what winning the final would mean to him.
Miami has also seen a reboot this year, after many failed attempts at being relevant in Major League Soccer. The owners, David Beckham, Jorge & Jose Mas, did what seemed impossible by bringing in renowned individuals to the club. Lionel Messi, you might know him, is by far the biggest star the world of soccer has ever seen. Since his arrival, he has transformed the league into must watch television when he steps on the field. Scoring the winning goal in his debut against Cruz Azul was just the beginning from the man from Rosario, Argentina. But while Messi will be the focal point, the arrival of Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, Facundo Farias and of course, head coach Tata Martino have turned the tide for the Herons. They had a fantastic run in Leagues Cup, winning the trophy and taking a spot in the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup. Houston will be there too after advancing to tomorrow’s final.
Now the big question is, will Messi take the field in the final? The superstar has been dealing with an injury and head coach Tata Martino says it will be a game-time decision whether Messi plays against the Dynamo. Alba is all but ruled out, meaning if Messi doesn’t play, only Busquets will remain from Miami’s former Barca trio. Taking nothing away from Miami’s other players, Messi is the goat and he’s the star attraction that everyone wants to see. Beating Messi in a final can make legacy moments for players and the club.
Which then begs the question, does winning a final over Miami lose any luster if Messi doesn’t play? There are arguments to be had on both sides. A trophy is a trophy. But also, beating Messi and shocking the world could put the Dynamo on the map around the world. Trophies change the fate of clubs. Winning a trophy against the biggest star on the planet could do so much more. But there’s no guarantee the Dynamo win, whether Messi plays or not. Obviously, the job feels a little easier without the Argentine. So, how do you feel? Do you want to see Messi play? Does it matter if the Dynamo beat Miami with or without him? Let us know!
