Inter Miami CF vs. Orlando City SC: A Preseason Thriller

Inter Miami CF and Orlando City SC battled to a thrilling 2-2 draw in their preseason match at Raymond James Stadium on February 14th, 2025. This exciting encounter, reported by Orlando Sentinel Correspondent Kyle Foley, showcased the talent of both teams, setting the stage for the upcoming MLS season. The game was a captivating display of skillful plays, missed opportunities, and last-minute drama, leaving fans wanting more.

A Back-and-Forth Affair

The match was a rollercoaster from the start. Orlando City took an early lead in the 15th minute thanks to Martín Ojeda's clever chip over the goalkeeper, assisted by Iván Angulo. However, Inter Miami responded swiftly, equalizing in the 22nd minute with a well-executed goal by Tadeo Allende, assisted by Luis Suárez. The first half ended with both teams demonstrating their offensive capabilities.

The second half saw Orlando City regain the lead in the 54th minute. A defensive lapse by Inter Miami gifted possession to Ojeda, who then brilliantly set up Ramiro Enrique for a goal. But the drama wasn't over. Inter Miami's Fafa Picault scored a dramatic equalizer in the 93rd minute, capitalizing on a rebound, assisted by Robert Taylor. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, leaving both teams with valuable lessons learned in this hard-fought preseason clash.

Key Moments & Performances

• Martín Ojeda's brilliance: Ojeda was instrumental for Orlando City, scoring one goal and providing the assist for the other, showcasing his attacking prowess.
• Inter Miami's "Core Four": Inter Miami fielded their star-studded quartet of Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, demonstrating their commitment to a strong start to the season.
• Messi's impact: While Messi didn't score, his presence on the field significantly influenced Inter Miami's attacking plays, highlighting his influence on the team.
• Late-game drama: The late goal by Fafa Picault added significant excitement, culminating in a tense and thrilling finish to the match.

Orlando City's Preseason Conclusion

For Orlando City, the 2-2 draw marked the end of their preseason campaign. Coach Oscar Pareja expressed satisfaction with his team's performance, despite the draw. He highlighted the players' performance against a strong Inter Miami squad and noted several missed scoring opportunities. Orlando City will now focus on their upcoming home opener against the Philadelphia Union on February 22nd.

Looking Ahead

Both Inter Miami and Orlando City showcased impressive talent in this preseason match. The game provided valuable insights into the strategies and strengths of each team as they prepare for the upcoming MLS season. The rivalry between these two Florida teams ensures a compelling storyline for fans to follow throughout the season. The upcoming regular season promises exciting matchups between these two talented squads.