2. Offensive impact
With both teams coming off a four-month hiatus, there will be loose touches and play in the final third.
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For Inter Miami, the search for a star number nine continues, with GM Paul Mcdonough reiterating the club’s ambition to sign a striker and another central midfielder. As for the MLS is Back Tournament, Miami will lean on the attacking talents of Rodolfo Pizarro to dictate the match.
Pizarro has shown that he can make a difference in the final third, scoring the club’s first-ever goal against D.C. United. Couple that with the return of Julian Carranza and Robbie Robinson from injury, as well as Scottish international Lewis Morgan coming into his own, and Diego Alonso will surely have his men physically and tactically prepared.
As for Orlando City, Nani will return from his suspension to provide that extra added attacking spark for the Lions. Against Real Salt Lake, Orlando showed a lot of promise, creating five chances and taking nine shots on goal, but they lacked that crucial clinical nature when openings presented themselves.
Chris Mueller is certainly a player to watch. The 23-year old has played in both matches for Orlando and has had an impact, scoring the lone goal for the Lions in their 2-1 loss to Colorado. If Orlando is to win this match, Mueller and Nani will be the key men.