Featured Image Credit: GOAL
Inter Miami and Lionel Messi are eager for a rematch with Al-Nassr and Cristiano Ronaldo after their humbling 6-0 defeat during the pre-season program in 2024, as reported by GOAL.
Despite the challenging loss, the team remains optimistic and has expressed their desire for another faceoff, especially with the prospect of Messi and Ronaldo playing against each other.
The Initial Encounter
Ronaldo’s injury caused his absence and the late substitution of Messi limited their involvement in the first encounter between Inter Miami and Al-Nassr.
Despite the limited participation, the 6-0 defeat was a humbling experience for Inter Miami.
However, Julian Gressel, a member of the team, said after the loss when asked if the shock result proves MLS is behind the Pro League at present: “I don’t think you can compare. We are very early on in the process, only in our third week together as a team after a long couple months off. So, you can’t really compare. I think we would love to have a rematch at some point. That’s the competitor in me, maybe in an official competition like a Club World Cup.”
Inter Miami’s Pre-season Preparation
Inter Miami has faced a tough pre-season, suffering three defeats in four friendly games.
However, Gressel downplayed the significance of pre-season results, emphasizing the valuable lessons learned and the team’s growth potential.
The USMNT star added: “Ultimately, when the time comes, when it counts for us, that’s when we want to be at our best and these games are valuable, even though they sting quite a bit. I think it’s actually good to have games like this to prepare for the season. These aren’t your regular preseason games I’ve played in the past where you play in your training gear at times against other MLS teams. These are real games and that that will bode well for us.”
He went on to say: “Obviously not the result we wanted, but obviously, a lot of lessons to take. There’s a lot for us to learn from, for us to grow. There’s a ton of stuff we can look at on film, but it starts with us having a good start to the game. You can’t be down 3-0 in 12 minutes into the game. Those are lessons you learn in pre-season.”
Looking Ahead
Inter Miami has scheduled their opening fixture for the 2024 MLS season against Real Salt Lake on February 21.
The team is determined to start strongly and demonstrate their pre-season progress.
The match against Al-Nassr has served as a motivation for Inter Miami to work harder and improve their performance on the field.
Inter Miami continues their preparations, focusing on building a strong team dynamic and refining their tactics.
The players, eager to prove themselves, fully commit to achieving success in the upcoming season.
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