Lionel Messi’s frustration grew as Inter Miami’s miserable run grew to 3-0 defeat at home to Orlando City in the Major League Soccer (MLS) division.
Miami now has one win from their previous seven games in all competitions following the Florida derby defeat on Sunday. Orlando has taken over them in the Eastern Conference, putting them in sixth place.
As his form and that of his teammates deteriorated, Messi struggled to hit two shots on target and scuffed a free kick.
When things go well, it’s very easy, Messi told Apple TV, “We’ll truly see if we’re a team in difficult times.”
When times are challenging, he continued, “We must be more united than ever, be a true team, and pull ourselves together.”
Messi questioned the refereeing, but in reality the loss was more a result of shambolic defending, a disjointed midfield, and a punchless attack led by Luis Suarez, who was quickly losing.
In the 43rd minute, Orlando opened the scoring with a ridiculous simplicity goal. The ball was launched downfield by goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, and Luis Muriel slotted past Oscar Ustari with a header.
The visitors were enjoying playing directly against a sea-worn Miami backline. When Martin Ojeda found himself clear on goal, he should have headed over.
Ustari, a veteran keeper for Miami, made a strong double save, but Orlando’s second goal came after him.
Marco Pasalic received the ball on the edge of the box, and Ustari doubled Orlando’s lead with a low shot that flew through his legs and hands.
In an effort to sabotage the game, Miami coach Javier Mascherano attempted to attack players, but in vain.
Duncan McGuire broke down the left in the fourth minute of stoppage time, and Icelandic forward Dagur Thorhallsson slotted his low cross home in the final seconds to seal the visitors’ impressive performance.
Miami has conceded 20 goals in their previous seven games, with the only exception coming on May 3 against the New York Red Bulls.
The game was changed, according to Mascherano.
“We had it completely under control playing in the opponent’s half for 25 or 30 minutes, I’d say,” he said, “but this is how it is, obviously.” He said, “I’m not going to contest the outcome.”
Miami’s MLS campaign was successful up until the Vancouver Whitecaps’ exit in the Concacaf Champions Cup. Masscherano acknowledged the team’s morale had fallen.
“There is no denying that the team has lost a lot of confidence,” the statement read. It’s obvious that we have tried various schemes, different names, and have experienced a drop in level, both individually and collectively, and still do so today. We’ll continue to look for a solution.
Source: Aljazeera
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