New York City FC take on Inter Miami CF on Saturday night.
For this edition of 'The Away End' presented by Berkeley College & Rennert International, we spoke to Gian Jacome, a member of the Messi and Co podcast.
How long have you been covering Inter Miami?
This will be my and Ashley Silvers’ second season covering Inter Miami CF for 5 Reasons Sports Network. It has definitely been a wild ride so far.
It is incredible to look back at this club and see how much it has grown in such a short amount of time. My hope is that the success Miami has experienced brings visibility to the league and sparks the growth of other teams in MLS. Fans around the league deserve it!
What has been your highlight in that time?
As an avid soccer and FC Barcelona fan, it would definitely have to be watching Messi score the game-winning free kick in added time during his first match wearing an Inter Miami CF jersey. The excitement, the crowd, and the energy felt in the stadium make it one of the most exhilarating sports moments I have ever experienced.
How would you evaluate the team's start to the season?
Inter Miami is off to a good start in my opinion.
This team, when healthy and complete, is a juggernaut. However, due to injury, international duty, and waiting on the arrival of their new acquisitions, they have had a tough time putting their best 11 on the pitch consistently.
Despite the early adversity, they are holding on to 2nd place in the East, all while focusing on Champions Cup. That’s something to be proud of as a Miami fan!
What are your hopes for the team in 2024?
The objective for Inter Miami this season is quite clear: win the Concacaf Champions Cup. And if you can bring a Treble home along the way, then there is the cherry on top!
When you have world-class superstars like Messi, Suarez, Busquets, Alba, and young phenoms like Gomez and Redondo on your team, you can’t help but dream big and expect to win multiple trophies.
What do you think will be the deciding factor in Saturday's game?
I think it will be interesting. Inter Miami is coming off a brutal 4-0 loss to New York Red Bulls, and they have what could be considered the most important game in club history coming up midweek against Monterrey in the Champions Cup quarterfinals. Will they have a heavily rotated lineup? Will their struggling defense hold up? And can they bounce back after their worst performance since Messi’s arrival?
On the other hand, New York City has not gotten off to the best start. However, they proved they have fight in them this past weekend, playing a competitive game away from home against the #1 team in MLS.
We know there is an added motivation when facing Inter Miami, and teams elevate their game. I expect nothing less this weekend from NYC. The deciding factor for me is simple: which team wants it more?
For any of our fans who might be in the city for the game, are there any pre-match spots you'd suggest they check out?
First and foremost, welcome to all NYC fans! We hope you enjoy your stay.
So for those fans who aren’t aware, while Inter Miami’s new stadium is being built, Miami plays at Chase Stadium in Ft. Lauderdale. If you are in the area, Las Olas Boulevard is a nice place to visit. It’s right on the beach and has plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars. You can rent a bike or a Segway and tour the beautiful boardwalk.
Now if you’re in Miami, you can visit Coconut Grove, Bayside, or Wynwood. Those are all relaxing, family-friendly spots with great food and entertainment.
