Inter Miami CF wrapped up the Saudi Arabian leg of their 2024 preseason tour with a 6-0 loss to Al Nassr at the Kingdom Arena on Thursday.
Even with the late substitution of superstar No. 10 Lionel Messi, the Herons encountered an early setback when Otavio scored the first goal for the Arab Club Cup champions in the third minute.
The situation deteriorated as Miami conceded two more goals in quick succession, with Talisca (10′) and Aymeric Laporte (12′) hitting the back of the net. Laporte’s goal stood out, a long-range effort catching goalkeeper Drake Callender off guard.
Despite efforts from new signing Luis Suárez to spark a comeback in the second half, Inter Miami couldn’t reverse the tide. Talisca added two more goals in the final 45 minutes, and a late header from Maran sealed the victory for Al Nassr.
Starting Lineups
NAS: David Ospina – Nawaf Boushal, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Aymeric Laporte, Alex Telles – Abdulmajeed Al-Sulaiheem, Otavio, Marcelo Brozović, Talisca – Abdulaziz Al-Aliwa, Mohammed Maran
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MIA: Drake Callender – Jordi Alba, Noah Allen, Sergii Kryvtsov, Tomás Avilés, Julian Gressel – David Ruíz, Sergio Busquets, Gregore – Leonardo Campana, Luis Suárez
Three Key Observations
OVERALL EVALUATION: Following the conclusion of four preseason matches, Miami (0W-3L-1D) is still in pursuit of their inaugural victory. While these preparatory games serve their intended purpose, unforeseen injuries have introduced an additional layer of complexity. With only three more friendly matches to go before their regular-season kick-off against Real Salt Lake on Feb. 21 (8 pm ET | MLS Season Pass), several uncertainties linger.
DECISIVE MOMENT: Despite the non-participation of key players Messi and the sidelined Cristiano Ronaldo, Kingdom Arena bore witness to a showcase of substantial star quality. Aymeric Laporte, the former Manchester City defender, stole the spotlight with an extraordinary goal from beyond midfield
STANDOUT PERFORMER: Talisca left a notable impact early in the game and concluded with an outstanding display, securing a hat trick.
Upcoming Fixtures MIA: Feb. 4 vs. Hong Kong Team | 3 am ET (MLS Season Pass) HIL: Feb. 8 vs. Al-Hilal | 1 pm ET
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