New Delhi: After some terrible defense in a 2-2 tie, the Herons’ blushes were spared thanks to a late equalizer from Fafa Picault, while Inter Miami’s explosive combo was kept quiet. In a 2-2 draw with in-state rivals Orlando City SC, Inter Miami suffered their first preseason point loss. It didn’t take Orlando long to take the lead in the first half as Messi’s side were behind in the 15th minute of the game.
Martin Ojeda had a clear sight on goal after Orlando City’s well-executed counterattack, which he took advantage of by dinking over the goalie. Soon after, Miami retaliated, with a brief exchange between Suarez and Tadeo Allende creating a simple opportunity for the Argentine, who slid into the far corner. After 39 minutes, Orlando should have taken the lead, but Marco Pasalic’s attempt was stopped by a fine save by Oscar Ustari.
Following the break, Orlando sprang to life. Orlando diligently created an easy chance for Ramiro Enrique, who buried from close range, after Hector Martinez mishandled a long pass, giving the Lions their second goal. In the 93rd minute, Fafa Picault’s beautiful finish saved Miami’s blushes. Messi, for his part, was thrilling at times but was unable to completely change the outcome. For brief moments, he appeared bright and missed two free kicks. But for him, the enchantment never fully worked.
Player of the match: Martin Ojeda
Termina nuestro último test de pretemporada 👊 pic.twitter.com/vLeSNCOVBG
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) February 15, 2025
Orlando was always going to approach this game in an odd way. Naturally, Miami prefers to be in possession of the ball and having the technical skill to withstand pressure. The Lions would therefore always need to be opportunistic during the break and choose their times to attack. Ojeda fully embraced such perspective. He scooped up several pockets of space around Sergio Busquets, assisted on another, and scored one goal, making things difficult for Miami the entire time. Miami Black was not worn by the top ten players on the field on Friday night.
Leo Messi’s Inter Miami failed to continue their perfect pre-season start after a thrilling 2-2 draw against Orlando City in Tampa. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
