Inter Miami Continues Unbeaten Streak with 3-1 Victory over LAFC
Inter Miami secured a 3-1 victory over LAFC on Sunday at BMO Stadium, extending their unbeaten streak since Lionel Messi’s debut with the MLS side on July 21. Here’s everything you need to know about the match:
Facundo Farías opened the scoring for Inter Miami in the 14th minute with a shot from the right side of the box to the bottom left corner. Jordi Alba extended Inter Miami’s lead to 2-0 with a goal in the 51st minute. Leonardo Campana sealed the victory for Inter Miami in the 83rd minute, with Messi providing the assist following a fast break. LAFC managed to score a consolation goal in the 90th minute when Ryan Hollingshead headed in a goal off a cross from Carlos Vela.
The Athletic’s instant analysis of the match highlighted LAFC as one of Miami’s toughest opponents to date. Despite dominating possession and taking twice as many shots as Miami, LAFC only have themselves to blame for the 3-1 loss. Miami showed moments of shakiness but capitalized on counterattacks, displaying clinical finishing and opportunistic play to secure three crucial points against a strong opponent.
Miami’s ability to adapt quickly has been a key factor in their success. While LAFC applied significant pressure in the opening 20 minutes, Miami relied on luck and quality goalkeeping to weather the storm. Once they found their rhythm, Miami showcased their attacking prowess. Farías, in just his second appearance, displayed excellent performance throughout the match, scoring an impressive lunging effort early on. Messi had periods of limited involvement but made his presence felt by assisting in Miami’s final goal of the game.
DeAndre Yedlin, Inter Miami defender, expressed confidence and satisfaction with the win, stating that beating LAFC gives the team a significant confidence boost. However, Miami still has areas to improve upon, particularly in defending set pieces, as LAFC’s only goal came from a late set piece opportunity.
With this victory, Miami now has 25 points, trailing the Chicago Fire by seven points for the final postseason spot in the Eastern Conference. While statistically a longshot to qualify for the playoffs, Miami’s current form suggests they are unlikely to drop any points in their upcoming matches.
Messi, in a postgame interview, emphasized the importance of the match and the team’s performance against a strong rival. He acknowledged the challenging setting and praised the team’s ability to secure a crucial result. Messi also expressed his satisfaction with his physical condition and his desire to continue contributing to the team’s success.
Highlights of the match included Campana’s goal assisted by Messi, extending Miami’s lead to 3-0. Hollingshead’s goal for LAFC provided a consolation goal in the dying moments of the game.
For more information and coverage of Inter Miami and MLS, be sure to check out The Athletic’s comprehensive football section.
(Photo: Harry How / Getty Images)