3 Observations from Inter Miami's Playoff Clinching Win Over FC Cincinnati

Inter Miami are playoff bound for the first time since 2022.

photo credit: Inter Miami CF

---

In one of the guttiest performances in Inter Miami history, the Herons have officially clinched their spot in the 2024 MLS Cup playoffs with a 2-0 win over rivals FC Cincinnati.

With huge performances from Jordi Alba, Drake Callender, David Martinez, and Luis Suárez, the men in pink fought hard despite being down a man for the second half.

After the team’s disappointing exit from Leagues Cup, Tata Martino’s men needed a club-defining game to get the fans to believe again.

They did that and then some in a gritty display against a heated Eastern Conference opponent.

Even without their talisman Lionel Messi, Inter Miami is finding the heart and determination to grind out results.

With the Argentine set to return sooner rather than later, the Herons will find themselves with additional attacking firepower heading into the postseason.

Here are three observations from Miami’s resilient win against FCC.

---

1.) Tomas Avilés and His Yellow Card Tendencies

While many supporters will enjoy the result, there are mounting concerns over Tomas Avilés’ frequent yellow card accumulation. The youngster leads the entire Inter Miami squad with eight yellow cards and two reds in 22 matches played.

As one of the starting center-backs on the squad, that’s an unacceptable number and will be something to watch out for as Miami looks to clinch the Supporter Shield soon.

For his transfer fee and high ceiling, Avilés must get it together for the sake of Miami’s playoff and Shield hopes. Against Cincinnati, Miami was lucky, but other teams in MLS will undoubtedly take advantage the next time Avilés gets himself sent off.

---

2.) Suarez Still Has It

photo credit: Inter Miami CF

---

Luis Suárez once again proved his quality to Inter Miami. Although there were doubts over his health and age coming into the season, the Uruguayan is aging like fine wine, helping propel Miami to new heights - including the team’s first playoff appearance since 2022.

The 37-year-old is now up to 14 goals and five assists in 19 matches.

---

3.) Defense Held Up

Thanks to the defensive efforts of Drake Callender and David Martinez, Miami was able to keep their first clean sheet since May 18th.

Cincinnati is a free-flowing attacking team. Even with Luciano Acosta starting on the bench, Cincy was able to attack Miami through several avenues.

Luckily, both Callender and Martinez decided to have a World Cup Final-esque performance that helped Miami inch one step closer to their Supporters Shield dreams.

---

What do you think of Miami’s performance? Let me know in the comments.