Inter Miami had a tough matchup in their first group stage game against Egyptian giants Al Ahly. Despite going against one of the toughest teams in all of Africa, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami played well with 55 percent of the possession.
Miami had key chances with more overall shots compared to their Egyptian foes. Despite what would be considered a positive result, Miami is preparing for their next game, thinking they should have walked away with a win in their opening match.
Inter Miami and LAFC appear to be strong contenders early in this competition, as LAFC lost by one to an impressive Chelsea side.
I will discuss my main takeaways from Inter Miami’s performance and what we should expect from their next performance.
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Takeaways against Al Ahly
Miami looked good in the attack, the chances they created showed a flair of creativity, and the skill necessary to stick with top teams in the world.
The midfield for Miami needs to be more impactful in the remaining group stage matches. No midfielder had a rating higher than a seven from Federico Redondo. Sergio Busquets‘ impact in the first half was limited as he was easily bypassed. The second half is more of what we expect to see from him.
If the midfield cannot control the ball and the direction of the game, it will be hard to see this Miami team advancing to the knockouts.
The defense had moments that concerned me throughout as Al Ahly had quality chances, including a Penalty shot that was saved by Oscar Ustari. Ustari had a rating of eight thanks to his performance that kept Miami in the game.
Goalkeeping hasn’t been an asset for Miami so far this season, but against Al Ahly, it was the reason they stayed in this game.
Messi was solid as always; he was the main form of attack as Luis Suarez struggled to be involved for large portions of this game. Suarez had a few fun moments, but overall disappointing from the attacker.
Preview vs FC Porto
FC Porto is the toughest squad in this group as they are my pick to win the group and advance to the knockout rounds.
This will be the most difficult challenge for Miami in the group stage, considering they could not get a win against Al Ahly. It is encouraging to see Miami create chances the way they did and look like they belong.
Porto is a Champions League-quality squad and will be the first and only of its caliber that Miami will face in the group.
If the defense can be more organized and calm and rely less on the spectacular goalie play, Miami can pack it in and wait for the right chance to attack. With Busquets and Messi on the attack, a defense stand can turn into a quick-hitting counter in the blink of an eye.
Miami will be the less talented squad against Porto despite having the best player on the field at all times in Messi.
All signs point to Porto winning this game, even considering the quality that Porto possesses. I am optimistic that Miami can not just stick with them but win the game.
Main Photo
Credit IMAGO / NurPhoto
Recording Date 14.06.2025