Inter Miami Oppo Research: Orlando City
+ a Benja Cremaschi update
photo credit: Orlando City
Welcome to the third edition of “Oppo Research” where I briefly run down Inter Miami’s opponents during the 2024 season.
This weekend, rivalry week is upon us as the Herons take on Orlando City.
Though Miami is only in its fifth season of existence, there is plenty of animosity between these two fan bases.
The tension between the two sides will undoubtedly make for a feisty match on the pitch.
I, for one, am looking forward to seeing how everything goes down, haha.
With Miami set to host the Lions at home, I’m sure La Familia will be anticipating this match as well.
Manager: Óscar Pareja
Projected Formation XI vs. Inter Miami: 4-2-3-1
Last Match: 3-1 win over Cavalry FC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup
Incoming Transfers:
Luis Muriel, 32, forward. Recently arrived in Orlando City from Serie A side Atalanta. Signed as a Designated Player.
Nicolás Lodeiro, 34, attacking midfielder. Signed with the Lions after spending most of his MLS career with the Seattle Sounders.
David Brekalo, 25, center-back. Joined Orlando after the departure of Antonio Carlos. Is a key starter for the Lions.
Key Players:
Pedro Gallese, 34, goalkeeper. Alongside Drake Callender and many others, considered one of the top keepers in MLS. The Peru international ended 2023 with 12 clean sheets and a 72% save percentage.
Wilder Cartagena, 29, defensive midfielder. Alongside Cesar Araujo, Cartagena is the muscle in Orlando’s midfield. Will probably be tasked with man-marking Messi.
Facundo Torres, 23, winger. One of Orlando's top young talents, the winger is also quite versatile, having the ability to cut inside to play centrally. He’ll be the main danger man for Miami’s defense on Saturday.
Weaknesses:
Though this is a small sample size, a couple of Orlando fans on Reddit lamented the team’s lack of finishing ability after their 0-0 opening-day match vs. CF Montreal:
“While many of the players looked good, we keep the trend of lack of quality in the attacking third,” one fan said.
“I know it's the first game of the season but, I don't see any meaningful changes to the problems from last year. Kinda OK buildup but missing the quality to finish,” another fan echoed.
“The offense just did not look like they were in sync.”
This may very well change now that striker Luis Muriel is starting up top for them.
Benja is *almost* back
How do you think Inter Miami will do against the Lions? Let’s discuss it in the comments!