Leagues Cup 2024: 3 Observations from Inter Miami's Win Over Puebla
Jordi Alba is immortal.
photo credit: Inter Miami CF
Inter Miami kicked off their Leagues Cup defense with a 2-0 win vs. Puebla.
Though many fans and journalists believed that the Herons would take this tournament relatively lightly, the play on the field heavily suggested otherwise.
Despite absences from first-choice goalkeeper Drake Callender and center-back Toto Avilés, Miami came on strong, playing a brand of football that fans are growing accustomed to.
Lined up in their typical 4-3-3, the men in pink looked structured, dominating possession throughout the match.
The midfield was fluid, but sturdy, with goal contributions from Matias Rojas and Julian Gressel. Yannick Bright was the base of that middle three, providing the men in pink with a physical presence that helped stymie Puebla’s sputtering attack.
Although it’s only the beginning of the tournament, Tata Martino’s men showed out and set the tone for the rest of the opposition.
Here are three observations from Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup opening match against Puebla.
1.) The Yannick Bright Renaissance
photo credit: Inter Miami CF
Who would’ve thought a SuperDraft pick would have this big of an impact? Yannick Bright has quietly cemented himself as a crucial player at the spine of Miami’s midfield.
The Italian has slowly morphed into Gregore re-gen (don’t jump me!) disrupting opposition moves before they have the chance to get started.
Against Puebla, the 22-year-old showed off his defensive stamina, ending the game with six tackles won, 12 duels won, and six recoveries.
2.) Welcome to the team, David Martinez!
photo credit: Inter Miami CF
With the season-ending injury to Nico Freire, Miami needed to acquire another left-footed defender.
In steps David Martinez.
The 26-year-old had a solid debut for the Herons, providing balance and much-needed athleticism at the left-sided center-back spot.
The Paraguayan performed well and was exactly the type of personnel Miami needed to continue their good form in MLS.
Despite a few shaky moments that could be attributed to a lack of chemistry with the squad, Martinez looks to have a bright future for the club.
3.) Jordi Alba….
I’m still in awe at his stamina at 35 years old.
How’d you all feel about Miami’s match tonight? Let me know in the comments!
Even though I'm not going to be watching #LeaguesCup2024 it would be nice if you could do this for MLS as well