In a tighter contest than many anticipated, Tadeo Allende emerged as the hero for Inter Miami, securing a 2-0 victory against Cavalier SC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup round of 16. The first leg, held at Chase Stadium, saw Inter Miami without Lionel Messi for the second consecutive game due to workload management. However, the team demonstrated its depth and resilience, performing well despite a short recovery period.
Allende, in impressive form, capitalized on a crucial moment after Cavalier goalkeeper Vino Barclette’s save. Sergio Busquets delivered a precise cross, finding Allende who netted a goal worthy of the competition. The winter signing from Celta Vigo has now scored in three successive matches. Luis Suarez further solidified Miami’s lead with an insurance goal in the 82nd minute, compensating for a somewhat sluggish start to the game.
Following the departures of key offensive players Leonardo Campana and Diego Gomez in the off-season, concerns about Miami’s attack were present. However, Allende and midfielder Telasco Segovia are quickly proving their value to coach Javier Mascherano. They are demonstrating that the team possesses reliable attacking options even when Messi is not on the field, showcasing early season depth.
Despite Miami’s undefeated streak now extending to five matches across all competitions, the initial slow pace against Cavalier SC, possibly due to players like Suarez not being fully rested after the Houston Dynamo game, might be a minor concern for Mascherano. Cavalier SC did create opportunities, hitting the post in the first half and having a Shaquille Stein goal disallowed for a handball after VAR review.
The second leg, scheduled for Thursday, Match 14, at the Jamaican national team stadium in Kingston, promises to be a significant event. Moved to a larger venue due to Messi’s star power and with the outcome of the tie still uncertain, there is anticipation that the Argentine star may need to play in this crucial return fixture after his rest.
Cavalier will be prepared for the occasion, drawing on their history of hosting major figures like Pele in Jamaica. However, as evident in this match, simply defending and relying on direct play will likely not be enough to overcome Miami. With the quality of players like Suarez and the seamless integration of Allende and Segovia, Inter Miami presents a formidable attacking force that will challenge any opponent. For now, the team is focused on taking each game as it comes and seeing how far their undefeated run can extend.
