Inter Miami vs Orlando city, Inter Miami’s flawless preseason record came to an end after a 2-2 draw against Orlando City SC in their final warm-up match before the 2024 MLS season. Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez failed to deliver their usual attacking brilliance, while defensive errors cost Miami dearly.
Despite Fafa Picault’s last-minute equalizer, the Herons struggled to break down Orlando’s defense, raising concerns ahead of their first competitive fixture against Sporting KC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
With MLS competition proving tougher than previous opponents, this match exposed Inter Miami’s vulnerabilities, especially in defense. Let’s dive into the match highlights, player performances, and key takeaways from this preseason showdown.
Inter Miami Held to a Draw in Preseason Finale Inter Miami vs Orlando City: Match Highlights
First Half: Balanced Battle, But Defensive Concerns for Miami
Orlando City started strong, capitalizing on quick counterattacks to threaten Miami’s defense.
- In the fifth minute, Orlando nearly took the lead when Martin Ojeda found the net, but VAR ruled the goal offside.
- Inter Miami responded quickly, with Messi orchestrating attacking moves, but Luis Suarez’s finishing woes continued as he missed a few half-chances.
Ojeda’s Clinical Finish Gives Orlando the Lead
- In the 25th minute, Orlando City broke the deadlock. A well-executed counterattack left Miami’s defense exposed, and Ojeda coolly chipped the ball over the goalkeeper to make it 1-0.
- Miami responded in the 33rd minute, as Tadeo Allende and Suarez combined to create a golden chance. Allende slotted the ball into the far corner, leveling the score at 1-1.
Second Half: Defensive Blunders Cost Miami
- Orlando City regained the lead in the 52nd minute after a horrific defensive mistake from Hector Martinez.
- Ramiro Enrique took advantage of the miscontrol, firing home to put Orlando ahead 2-1.
Fafa Picault’s Late Equalizer Saves Miami
- Miami pushed for a late equalizer, but Messi’s free-kicks narrowly missed the target.
- Finally, in the 93rd minute, Fafa Picault pounced on a loose ball in the box, scoring a crucial equalizer to secure a 2-2 draw.
Key Player Performances: Winners & Losers
🏆 MVP: Martin Ojeda (Orlando City)
Ojeda dominated the midfield, creating multiple goal-scoring opportunities. He:
✅ Scored Orlando’s first goal with a composed finish
✅ Assisted the second goal, exploiting Miami’s defensive errors
✅ Constantly troubled Busquets and Miami’s midfield
❌ Biggest Disappointment: Luis Suarez
For the fifth straight game, Suarez failed to score. Despite:
❌ Good movement and link-up play, he lacked finishing precision
❌ Had a goal ruled out for offside, adding to his frustration
❌ Missed key chances that could have changed the game
With the MLS season starting soon, Suarez must regain his sharpness to support Messi and Miami’s attack.
What This Result Means for Inter Miami
1. Defensive Concerns Loom Large
- Hector Martinez’s blunder highlighted Miami’s vulnerability under pressure.
- The team conceded two goals from counterattacks, a worrying sign ahead of competitive matches.
2. Messi and Suarez Need More Support
- Messi was active, but not as dominant as usual.
- Suarez’s struggles indicate Miami might need more attacking options.
3. MLS Competition Will Be Tougher
- Miami dominated against weaker preseason opponents, but MLS teams won’t be as easy to break down.
Conclusion: Can Miami Fix Their Problems Before the MLS Season?
Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw vs Orlando City exposed serious concerns ahead of their MLS campaign. While Messi showed flashes of brilliance, and Fafa Picault salvaged a late draw, defensive lapses and Suarez’s poor form raised red flags.
With their first competitive fixture against Sporting KC looming, Hansi Flick must address defensive issues and restore Suarez’s confidence.
FAFA PICAULT gentan pran coeur tout fanatik Inter Miami.
🔥🔥🔥🇭🇹🇭🇹🇭🇹
— NALHIE (@nalhie) February 15, 2025
FAQs About Inter Miami vs Orlando City Preseason Draw
1. Why did Inter Miami struggle against Orlando City?
Miami’s defensive errors and lack of finishing cost them. They conceded two avoidable goals and failed to convert key chances.
2. How did Lionel Messi perform in the match?
Messi had moments of brilliance, but did not score or assist. His free kicks were close, but he lacked his usual match-winning impact.
3. What went wrong for Luis Suarez?
Suarez was offside for his only goal, and missed several chances. His goal drought now extends to five games.
4. Who was the best player for Inter Miami?
Fafa Picault, who scored a last-minute equalizer, was Miami’s savior in this match.
5. What’s next for Inter Miami?
Miami plays Sporting KC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup on Tuesday, February 20 in their first competitive game of the season.
🔥 Can Inter Miami bounce back and dominate MLS? Let us know your thoughts!
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