Orlando City Overpowers Inter Miami in 4-2 Victory

ORLANDO: In a commanding performance at Inter&Co Stadium on Sunday, Orlando City SC defeated Inter Miami with a score of 4-2. Luis Muriel shone with two goals, while Martin Ojeda contributed a goal and an assist.

Inter Miami played without Lionel Messi, their star player, who was sidelined due to a leg injury sustained during a Leagues Cup game against Necaxa the previous Saturday.

Miami’s coach, Javier Mascherano, refrained from making excuses for Messi’s absence, but noted the team lacked hunger and desire, which was a source of disappointment.

Mascherano’s Post-Match Thoughts

“There are no justifications today. Soccer involves strategy, formation, skill, but you also realize that in individual contests, they outperformed us,” Mascherano commented.

“We lacked the drive and determination to win every battle, which was evident today. We simply didn’t possess it.”

“It’s particularly disheartening because, in soccer, you can either be defeated or simply lose, but I felt the team lacked the essential intensity required for the match.”

Orlando City continues to dominate Miami at home, maintaining an undefeated record against Messi’s squad in eight encounters. They ascended to fourth position in the East, while Miami descended to sixth after their second defeat in the last four league matches (1-2-1).

Goalkeeper Oscar Ustari, returning to Inter Miami after a five-match hiatus due to a hamstring injury, faced a relentless onslaught of shots.

Ustari managed to save eight shots from Orlando City, who overwhelmed Inter Miami with 22-10 in total shots and 12-5 in shots on target.

Key Moments of the Match
  • Muriel initiated the scoring for Orlando City in the second minute, capitalizing on Ojeda’s assist.
  • Miami quickly responded three minutes later with Yannick Bright, a defensive midfielder, who scored his first MLS goal from a swift shot following a failed clearance by Orlando.
  • The second half was dominated by Orlando City, who seized control by scoring three goals.
  • Muriel further enhanced his performance in the 50th minute with a display of individual skill.
  • In the 58th minute, Muriel delivered a precise long ball to Ojeda, who skillfully directed a low shot past Ustari.
  • Marco Pasalic sealed Orlando’s triumph by netting the ball on a second attempt in the 88th minute.