Analyzing Inter Miami’s Playoff Prospects and Tactical Decisions

**GOAL: Were Inter Miami ever truly on upset watch?**
**TWELLMAN:** I don’t believe they were. Inter Miami faced significant challenges during the first 45 minutes of their decision day match against Nashville, where they were thoroughly outplayed, resulting in an expected goals metric exceeding 3.1 for Nashville. This performance clearly alarmed Miami, prompting them to make necessary adjustments. In the second half, they rebounded impressively, dominating Nashville and with Messi scoring a hat trick, they demonstrated their awareness of the competition’s capabilities. While I anticipated a tough match in Nashville, I didn’t foresee Nashville winning. Their performance on decision day likely made them hesitant entering the playoffs.

**GOAL: Are Miami better without Luis Suarez?**
**TWELLMAN:** This is a compelling dialogue that I’ve been engaging in for nearly 14 months. Given the league’s competitive nature, the presence of a quality player like Messi is paramount. However, adding another quality player with less athleticism, such as Suarez, can limit the team’s overall dynamic. With Suarez and Busquets in key positions, both arguably the best in their roles, their lack of mobility could restrict the team’s potential. Although Suarez can deliver exceptional moments, the trade-off is significant. Game 3 against Nashville illustrated the benefits of a more athletic lineup when Suarez was unavailable due to suspension. Now that the team is healthy, questions arise regarding whether Suarez should start against Cincinnati. If anyone dismisses this question, they likely haven’t observed Miami’s performance without Suarez or Busquets together on the field.

**GOAL: Put yourself in Javier Mascherano’s shoes. What are you doing?**
**TWELLMAN:** I have considered Mascherano’s perspective throughout this season and haven’t always aligned with his decisions. Early this season, I would have opted for a three-man backline, which I still believe would optimize Miami’s performance. Mascherano has consistently disagreed with this strategy, and I would be surprised if he does not start Suarez moving forward.

**GOAL: Were you at all surprised by how easy LAFC made the series look against Austin?**
**TWELLMAN:** Austin has not posed a significant threat offensively this season. Consequently, I wasn’t surprised by LAFC’s commanding performance. They may not have played at their peak, but they remained composed and untroubled. As they prepare to face a familiar rival in Vancouver, they are well-equipped for the challenge. Vancouver has improved significantly, especially with Thomas Mueller’s addition and Ryan Gauld’s return. However, LAFC’s counter-attacking prowess with players like Bouanga positions them favorably in this matchup.

**GOAL: There is loosely a parallel to be drawn between that obligatory Tottenham win against Manchester City and this game…**
**TWELLMAN:** Vancouver enjoys possession and maintains an attacking style, which benefits them in their home crowd atmosphere. This plays right into the hands of skilled counter-attacking players like Denis Bouanga and Son Heung-Min, creating a fascinating tactical matchup.

**GOAL: If we look outside, the biggest names, if you will, who are your favorites? Are you still looking at the Philadelphia Union? Are you looking at FC Cincinnati?**
**TWELLMAN:** I maintain my belief that the path to the Eastern Conference title runs through Ohio. Despite their injuries, Cincinnati’s strength is notable. Miami must overcome the challenge of winning in Cincinnati, which is no small feat. In my view, the winner of this match will emerge as the favorite for the Eastern Conference title. While I respect the Philadelphia Union’s system-focused approach, the high-quality players in Cincinnati and Miami present a formidable challenge.

**GOAL: Were you surprised by NYCFC this year?**
**TWELLMAN:** I anticipated NYCFC to be in contention for the playoffs, but I underestimated Nico Fernandez’s impact. His $8 million transfer proved to be one of the best investments in MLS, significantly transforming the team. Unfortunately, injuries to key players like Andres Perea and Aiden O’Neill complicate their situation, potentially hindering their playoff aspirations.

**GOAL: What are your thoughts on the MLS schedule change?**
**TWELLMAN:** I am enthusiastic about it. The league’s business strategy aims to enhance its global stature. Adjusting the schedule to align with international transfer windows will help MLS reduce costs and increase competitiveness. The winter break mirrors successful models in other leagues, fostering a positive momentum for MLS.

**GOAL: And is this a legitimacy thing for the league? That has always been the argument from Europeans, in particular, that they play at the “wrong” time of the year…**
**TWELLMAN:** My response to that is, who defines the “right” time to play? Europe? Other regions, such as South America, have different seasonal structures. I believe that not competing during FIFA international windows is crucial, allowing the league to maintain its integrity and player availability. This enhances the league’s legitimacy and credibility, countering arguments against its timing.