In an exciting MLS encounter, Orlando City SC convincingly defeated Inter Miami CF 4-1. The match, held on Sunday night, witnessed an outstanding performance by Luis Muriel, who scored two goals, and by Martín Ojeda, who contributed with a goal and an assist.
Messi’s Absence Marks the Match
The absence of Lionel Messi, Inter Miami’s star, due to a leg injury suffered in a previous match, was a key factor in the development of the game. Miami coach Javier Mascherano acknowledged the impact of the absence of the Argentine star.Muriel opened the scoring for Orlando City in the second minute, and although Yannick Bright momentarily tied the game for Inter Miami, Orlando City’s supremacy became evident.Ojeda, with his assist on Muriel’s first goal, extended his personal record of goal contributions to 14 consecutive matches. Orlando City consolidated their lead with another goal from Muriel and a goal from Ojeda, who leads the league in goal contributions.Marco Pašalić sealed the victory with a goal in the 88th minute.There are no excuses today. Football is about tactics, organization, talent, but you also know that in one-on-one situations, they were better and we didn’t have the intensity the game needed.
Javier Mascherano
Orlando City moved up to fourth place in the Eastern Conference, while Inter Miami remains in sixth place, but with pending matches.The next challenge for Inter Miami will be against LA Galaxy, while Orlando City will face Sporting Kansas City.When you’re not at 100%, any team can beat you, and today there was only one team: Orlando. We didn’t play with the necessary intensity and they clearly outperformed us from the first minute. If we really want to compete, this is not the way.
Javier Mascherano
