Suárez penalty kick seals Inter Miami win after Berterame knocked unconscious in collision
Inter Miami secures road victory in Montreal
Inter Miami secured a 1-0 victory over CF Montreal at Stade Saputo on Saturday night, with Luis Suárez converting a penalty kick in the 81st minute. This result extends Miami’s winning streak on the road to six consecutive games. For Montreal, the loss marks their sixth consecutive MLS match without a win, leaving them struggling in the Eastern Conference playoff race.
The match saw Montreal create several scoring opportunities, particularly in the early stages. Despite controlling much of the ball and generating chances, they were unable to find the back of the net. Interim head coach Philippe Eullaffroy noted the team’s frustration with their inability to convert chances, stating that while the engagement and adherence to the game plan were present, efficiency in the final third was lacking.
One notable opportunity came when Prince Owusu delivered a low cross to Daniel Rios, who missed an open net. Shortly after, Hennadii Synchuk also tested Miami goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo with a backheel attempt from another Owusu cross, which was saved.
Collision and its impact on the match
A significant moment in the game occurred in the 70th minute when Germán Berterame and Efrain Morales collided, resulting in Berterame being knocked unconscious. The incident led to Berterame’s removal from the field by ambulance. Following the collision, Berterame was reported to be conscious in hospital and showing positive signs, according to Eullaffroy.
The contact was ruled a foul, leading to the penalty kick that Suárez successfully converted. This goal ultimately decided the match, as Montreal was unable to mount a comeback in the remaining minutes. The incident highlighted Montreal’s ongoing struggle with finishing, which has cost them points.
Montreal’s offensive struggles and squad challenges
Montreal’s offensive struggles have been a recurring theme, particularly since the World Cup break. After scoring in eight of nine matches leading into the break, the team has now failed to score in their last three MLS games. Coach Eullaffroy acknowledged the mix of positive and negative feelings surrounding the team’s performance, emphasizing the need to address the missed chances.
The team’s current situation is compounded by a challenging schedule and a thin squad. Montreal recently returned from a three-week World Cup break, which was followed by a two-legged Canadian Championship tie and a rivalry match against Toronto FC, all before facing three consecutive Eastern Conference heavyweights. The team had little time to rest and prepare for the Miami match after a 1-0 loss to Nashville SC on Wednesday.
Eullaffroy has indicated that he has provided the front office with requests for new players, particularly to strengthen the attack. The club has already made moves in the summer transfer window, acquiring midfielder Dani Pereira from Austin FC and defender Brayan Ceballos from the New England Revolution. However, the focus is now shifting towards bringing in more offensive talent.
Despite the recent difficulties, Montreal has shown strong home form under Eullaffroy, losing only once in eight games at Stade Saputo and winning five, with 16 goals scored across all competitions. Defender Jalen Neal expressed the team’s desire to make Stade Saputo a “fortress” and make it difficult for visiting teams to secure points. Montreal currently sits four points outside the Eastern Conference playoff picture.
Inter Miami played without star players Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul, who are taking time off after reaching the World Cup final. Eullaffroy noted that while playing without Messi could be an advantage, it also meant less game tape of Miami under their new coach, Guillermo Hoyos. Miami also recently signed Brazilian midfielder Casemiro. Inter Miami is scheduled to host the Columbus Crew on Saturday, August 1, while CF Montreal will host the New England Revolution on the same day.
Source: sportsnet.ca
