¿Will Messi Lead Inter Miami to the CONCACAF Champions Cup Quarterfinals?
Inter Miami faces Nashville this Wednesday in the second leg of the CONCACAF Champions League Round of 16 (2-2 in the first leg), a crucial match for the team led by Lionel Messi.
The Florida-based team suffered their first defeat of the season on Sunday, losing 2-3 to Montreal in the MLS. Messi didn't play due to rotations, while Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets only featured in the second half.
Gerardo "Tata" Martino, Inter Miami's coach, warned on Tuesday, ahead of the second leg of the CONCACAF Champions League Round of 16, that his team shouldn't speculate with the 2-2 draw from the first leg against Nashville.
"The best way to complicate the game is by speculating with those two away goals. I believe that, on the contrary, the best way is to go out and seek the match, which is what we naturally feel," he said in a press conference.
It's worth noting that this continental competition serves as a gateway to the FIFA Club World Cup.
Martino confirmed on Tuesday that he has "all players available," aside from those with long-term injuries, although he didn't disclose whether he will opt for a four-man defense or a five-man line for this match.
Nashville brings back good memories for Inter Miami as the Florida team secured their first-ever title last year by defeating Nashville in penalties in the Leagues Cup final.
"Evenly matched, with both teams intense and seeking to cause damage in their own way," he elaborated before highlighting that quick ball circulation, being "precise," and avoiding "inappropriate losses that lead to rapid counterattacks by the opponent" are some fundamental aspects for Inter Miami in this match.