Inter Miami suffered their first loss of the season against CF Montreal, with a score of 3-2. Lionel Messi was given the day off during this game, breaking his streak of playing every minute for Miami in their previous MLS matches and Concacaf Champions League draw. Despite the absence of Messi, teammates Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets were left out of the starting lineup but later came on as substitutes in the second half.
Assistant coach Javier Morales had hinted before the game that Messi would be resting ahead of the return leg against Nashville. This decision to rest Messi comes after he had played 90 minutes in all previous games, including the Champions League draw against Nashville where he scored a crucial goal to salvage a draw. Morales mentioned that Messi’s desire to play every game is well-known, but the coaching staff needed to consider his well-being and the future matches as well.
Player Management
Suarez, another star player for Miami, also found himself in a similar situation as Messi. Although he had scored goals in previous matches, Suarez was left out of the starting lineup to manage his minutes on the field. Morales emphasized the importance of managing player’s game time, especially in the early stages of the season, to avoid injuries and burnout. This cautious approach is vital considering the long season ahead for Miami.
Former Barcelona Players
Aside from Messi and Suarez, another former Barcelona player, Jordi Alba, was in the lineup against Montreal. Alba scored a beautiful goal during the game, showcasing the talent and experience these players bring to the team. Miami’s lineup boasts a mix of seasoned veterans and young talents, providing a well-rounded squad for the challenges ahead.
Miami will face Nashville in the return leg of the Concacaf Champions League round-of-16-tie on Wednesday. With key players like Messi and Suarez being rested strategically, Miami aims to secure a favorable result in this crucial match. The team’s depth will be tested, but the decision to rest star players shows a long-term vision and commitment to success throughout the season.
Inter Miami’s loss to CF Montreal and the decision to rest Lionel Messi reflect a thoughtful approach to player management and team performance. By prioritizing the well-being of their key players and utilizing the squad’s depth, Miami aims to navigate through a challenging season successfully. The upcoming matches will test the team’s resilience and adaptability, but with a balanced mix of experience and youth, Miami looks poised for a competitive season ahead.
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