The 2024 MLS season is fast approaching, and Inter Miami is gearing up for the opener against Real Salt Lake at the DRV PNK Stadium. However, the team’s preseason journey has hit a rough patch, raising concerns about their readiness for the upcoming campaign.
Inter Miami opted for an ambitious preseason schedule, with matches in San Salvador, Dallas, Riyadh, Hong Kong, and Tokyo. Despite the diversity of opponents, the team is yet to secure a victory or score a single goal in their two matches against the El Salvador national team and FC Dallas.
Messi pulls off a magic free kick at Inter Miami warm-up
The substitute bench becomes crucial, but setbacks are evident. Facundo Farias, an attacker who played a big role at the end of last year, sustained an ACL injury against El Salvador, ruling him out for the entire 2024 season. Ecuadorian striker Leo Campana, intended to relieve Suarez, has shown signs of sluggishness dating back to last year, raising doubts about the team’s attacking depth.
In Monday’s preseason game against FC Dallas, Miami conceded and early goal that revealed the defensive weaknesses. A lazy pass to the middle of the pitch from Jordi Alba led to a counter attack and Jesus Ferreira finding space to seal the goal.
Miami has critical preseason games ahead
The upcoming friendlies in Saudi Arabia against Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr present opportunities for improvement. Miami must address defensive lapses and fine-tune their strategies before facing Hong Kong XI, Japan’s Vissel Kobe, and Argentina’s Newell’s Old Boys in the remaining preseason games.
With just three games left before the season opener, Inter Miami’s focus turns to resolving issues and building cohesion. The friendlies against diverse opponents offer a chance to iron out weaknesses, ensuring they enter the season prepared for the challenges ahead.
As the countdown to the 2024 MLS kickoff continues, Inter Miami faces a pivotal period to address fitness concerns, shore up the bench, and refine their tactical approach. Only time will tell if the team can overcome these preseason hurdles and make a strong start to the upcoming season.
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