Inter Miami, featuring Lionel Messi, has experienced a pattern of progress followed by setbacks recently. Their last outing saw them suffer a significant defeat to Minnesota United, despite Messi finding the net. This loss highlighted Miami`s ongoing difficulties when facing stronger opposition and the impact of Luis Suarez`s absence, which seemed to allow Minnesota to control the game from start to finish.
Their next opponent, Bruce Arena`s San Jose Earthquakes, presents a different kind of test. While potentially not as defensively rigid as Minnesota, San Jose boasts a formidable attack. They lead the league in goals scored this season with 26. However, their defense has been more porous, having conceded 20 goals – a tally higher than five other teams. San Jose often relies on outscoring opponents in high-scoring contests. This strategy has proven effective enough to position them currently above the playoff line, indicating notable improvement under Arena`s guidance.
Background
This fixture marks only the second time San Jose and Inter Miami have met. Miami secured victory in their sole previous encounter back in March 2022. Lionel Messi`s first visit to San Jose is expected to generate considerable local excitement. While the initial intensity of `Messi mania` might have moderated in some parts of the country where he has played frequently, his appearances against Western Conference teams in stadiums he hasn`t visited before still draw immense attention.
Coach`s Perspective
High expectations are inherent at Inter Miami, contributing to Tata Martino`s departure after 1.5 seasons. Javier Mascherano is now feeling this pressure in his first season at the helm. Reports suggest the team`s recruitment strategy hasn`t adequately bolstered depth in key areas, adding to the challenge. Nevertheless, the presence of Messi means victory is consistently anticipated, regardless of the full squad`s composition. Following the loss to Minnesota United, Mascherano took responsibility for the team`s tactical performance.
Mascherano commented, “Every time we were attacking, unfortunately, we were very vulnerable on transitions after losing the ball. That`s what worries me the most. If the players` performance drops, the responsibility is entirely mine. In the end, there`s a coach — and if the players aren`t convinced by what the coach is proposing, it`s the coach`s fault.” Overcoming playoff-contending teams like San Jose will likely require tactical adjustments based on this assessment.
Anticipated Lineups
San Jose Earthquakes: Daniel, Daniel Munie, David Romney, Rodrigues, Vitor Costa, Beau Leroux, Ian Harkes, DeJuan Jones, Ousseni Bouda, Cristian Arango, Christian Espinoza
Inter Miami: Oscar Ustari, Jordi Alba, Noah Allen, Tomas Aviles, Marcelo Weigandt, Tadeo Allende, Yannick Bright, Sergio Busquts, Fafa Picault, Lionel Messi, Allen Obando
Player Spotlight
Cristian Arango, San Jose Earthquakes: Arango has been a transformative signing for San Jose, currently leading the MLS Golden Boot race with eight goals and one assist. He is firmly in contention for the league MVP award, and matches against high-profile opponents like Inter Miami provide him with a significant platform. The atmosphere in San Jose is expected to be electric, motivating Arango to perform at his best.
Key Narrative
Inter Miami`s Defensive Reliability: Miami`s defense has been a major point of concern, conceding 12 goals in their last three outings. Questions have emerged about the team`s resilience and ability to recover form, particularly on the road after the humbling four-goal defeat to Minnesota. While Messi`s presence elevates expectations, the team urgently needs other players to step up, especially in the absence of Luis Suarez. Mascherano must address these defensive vulnerabilities and find consistent contributions from the squad before the Club World Cup to avoid a potentially difficult period.
Match Prediction
Given Inter Miami`s recent defensive struggles and San Jose`s prolific attack, it`s anticipated that Miami`s difficulties may continue. San Jose, spearheaded by Cristian Arango, is expected to find scoring opportunities. While Miami is likely to score goals themselves, it might not be enough to secure a positive result on the road.
Predicted Score: San Jose Earthquakes 3, Inter Miami 2
