Inter Miami triumphed 2-1 over Toronto FC on Saturday at DRV PNK Stadium, as goals from Jean Mota and Ariel Lassiter propelled the team to fifth place on the Eastern Conference table.
The South Florida side now stands undefeated in their last five games, coming back after a turbulent start to the 2022 Major League Soccer campaign.
“It was a big win. Big win,” said head coach Phil Neville. “I also think that we set such high standards that we fell below those standards tonight, so I’m a little disappointed because I think in moments like this, you’ve got to keep pushing the level we play at.”
Inter Miami were outshot 16-8 by Toronto and only held 41% of possession throughout the match, still managed to bring home the three points.
“…this team never quits. This team has an incredible, incredible spirit…I do feel that something special is happening, and when you have moments like this, you shouldn’t take it for granted, and that’s why I was a little hard on them tonight: I wanted better.”
With only eight games left to be played this season, it’s looking more likely that Inter Miami will qualify for their first ever MLS playoffs after entering the league as an expansion side in 2020. The team stands two points clear of seventh place New England Revolution, boasting 36 points in 26 games and a record of 10W-10L-6D.
Jamaican international defender Damion Lowe recognized the team’s shaky start, but insists that the team is “not the Inter Miami from last year.”
“The beginning of the season is history for us. We’re not the Inter Miami from last year or a couple months ago, you know? New identity,” Lowe said after the match.
“How hungry? I mean, we’re like somebody that hasn’t eaten for weeks. That’s how badly we want this. We believe that we’re a top team. We built a culture, on and off the field, a brotherhood you know? Being your brother’s keeper, looking out for each other. This is a massive club, and from day one, we knew that…we want to be a top team in the league.”
Inter Miami return to action on Saturday when visiting the New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena, as they continue their fight to make playoffs.
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