Inter Miami Vs D.C. United: 3 tactical battles to watch

Inter Miami Vs D.C. United: 3 tactical battles to watch – The Rodolfo Pizarro tussle

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 29: Edison Flores #10 of D.C. United during a game between D.C. United and Colorado Rapids. The Colorado Rapids defeated D.C. Untied 2-1 during their Major League Soccer (MLS) match at Audi Field during a game between Colorado Rapids and D.C. United at Audi Field on February 29, 2020 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Jose Argueta/ISI Photos/Getty Images) /

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LOS ANGELES, CA – MARCH 01: Rodolfo Pizarro #10 of Inter Miami CF during a game between Inter Miami CF and Los Angeles FC at Banc of California Stadium on March 01, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Michael Janosz/ISI Photos/Getty Images) /

1. Midfield tussle

Against LAFC, Inter Miami started a midfield three that consisted of Wil Trapp, Victor Ulloa, and Designated Player Rodolfo Pizarro. The trio spent most of their time chasing after the ball, but when they did get a chance to create, they didn’t disappoint.

Pizarro was the best of the three, creating one big chance and completing 79% of his passes. When he was able to, the Mexican artfully wriggled his way through LAFC’s defense to either assist a teammate or put in a cross.

If D.C.’s game against the Rapids is an indication, the midfield will probably be obstructed, forcing Inter Miami to go wide. If that is the case, expect Matias Pellegrini and Lewis Morgan to be hugging the touchlines to provide space for Pizarro and Ulloa to pick a pass if they need to. Not only does this provide support for underlapping full-backs Ben Sweat and Alves Powell, but it also creates a numerical advantage against D.C.’s defense during one-on-one situations.

Next. USWNT Vs England: 3 things we learned. dark

Both sides are looking for their first three points on Saturday. And if they want to earn that elusive victory, dominating in these three areas will be critical.

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