Inter Miami Oppo Research: Vancouver Whitecaps
+ Why Messi, Suárez and Busquets didn't travel.
photo credit: Vancouver Whitecaps
Hello, and welcome back to another edition of “Oppo Research”, where I review every club Inter Miami will take on during the 2024 MLS regular season.
The big news circulating ahead of this weekend's game is the absence of three key players.
The Miami Herald reported yesterday that Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suárez would not be traveling with the team, instead choosing to rest and look toward their upcoming match-up against Atlanta United next Wednesday.
Though fans may be disappointed, alas, the show must go on.
Manager: Vanni Sartini
Projected Formation XI vs. Inter Miami: 3-4-3
Previous Result: 1-1 draw vs. Seattle Sounders
Current Record: 5W-4D-4L
Key Players:
Brian White, 28, striker. The American has been on fire for the Whitecaps lately, netting five goals in 12 matches for Vanni Sartini. Look for him to be the main danger man on Saturday.
Ryan Gauld, 28, winger. Gauld is the catalyst for Vancouver’s attack. The cerebral attacking midfielder/winger is at the heart of nearly every action in the final third. Expect Miami to keep an eye out on the Scotland international throughout the match.
Andres Cubas 28, midfielder. Cubas is a feisty central midfielder who will look to disrupt Miami’s attacking flow. The Paraguayan ranks high on fbref in defensive actions and is certainly the main obstacle standing between the Herons grinding out a result this weekend.
Weaknesses:
After scrolling through the Vancouver Whitecaps Subreddit a bit, many supporters expressed their frustration at the team’s inability to consistently get the ball in the back of the net:
“The team has now gone 4 games in a row without scoring from open play,” one fan said after the team’s 0-1 loss vs Cavalry FC.
I am sick and tired of mediocrity. That is what Whitecaps soccer is. Mediocrity is our identity and it sucks,” another supported complained.
Tata on why Messi, Suarez and Busquets didn’t travel:
Do you think Miami will get a good result this weekend despite the rotation? Let’s discuss it in the comments!
I still think we’ll win it. Harder without the stars but what isn’t. I’m relieved they’re not playing on turf tbh and resting them is probably a good idea.