Inter Miami Vs Orlando City: 3 tactical battles to watch for
By Alex Windley
Inter Miami takes on Orlando City on July 8th in the return of MLS. With all eyes on the MLS is Back’s opening game, here are three key battles to consider.
On Wednesday, Orlando City and Inter Miami kick off the MLS is Back Tournament. In the highly anticipated matchup, both clubs will want to put their best foot forward. With every team only playing three matches in the group stages, it is important for both teams to make a strong start, especially in the six-team Group A.
Orlando will look to build off the work that new manager Oscar Pareja has put in, bringing players like Junior Urso and Pedro Gallese. Coupled with a highly motivated squad that includes Nani, Tesho Akindale, and Benji Michel, the Lions are hoping to cement themselves as the ‘Kings of Florida.’
As for Inter Miami, Diego Alonso’s side will hope to make a deep run and perhaps even win it all, despite being an expansion team. Argentinian defender Nico Figal, in an interview with The Miami Herald, reiterated the team’s intention to go all the way:
"“The team’s mentality is to go compete. Every player on this roster is motivated to help Inter Miami make history and win this tournament.”"
With both sides rearing to go, what are the three tactical battles that will be seen on the pitch?
3. Defense, defense, defense
Like most leagues that have restarted, the level of play has been less than ideal. Wonky first touches, poor shots on goal, and suspect defending, the quality of performances on the field are a natural result of several months off. When Orlando and Miami clash on July 8th, what will perhaps be the most important area on the pitch will be in defense.
For Inter Miami that means a probable shift to a back three on a permanent basis. The signings of Leandro Gonzalez Pirez (who won’t be able to participate in the tournament due to league rules according to The Athletic ) and Brek Shea to bolster the backline indicate that a back three with wing-backs could be a long-term formation for Inter Miami. Against D.C. United, Miami showed that the back three is a viable formation based on personnel. They were able to control the tempo, create chances, all while keeping defensive stability.
As for Orlando City, the strong center-back pairing of Robin Jansson and Antonio Carlos will prove difficult for Inter Miami to break down. Since joining the club in early 2019, Jansson has been a rock in defense for the Lions. His performance against Real Salt Lake before the break was excellent, completing 87% of his passes and four clearances.
When Orlando and Miami meet, it will be interesting to see how both defensive sides hold up.