Sunday Night Soccer Preview: Orlando City vs. Inter Miami

Orlando, Florida – Sunday Night Soccer makes its return this week with the Copa del Sol at 8 p.m. ET, featuring the fierce rivalry between Orlando City and Inter Miami. This match not only revives their rivalry, where Orlando previously defeated Miami 3-0 in May, but it might also preview an upcoming Leagues Cup semifinal as both teams are in the same bracket.

Orlando City, currently positioned sixth in the Eastern Conference, has been performing well lately. Two regular-season wins just before the Leagues Cup, along with a strong showing in the tournament itself, have decreased the gap between Orlando and the top-tier teams in the East. This match offers an opportunity for Orlando to surpass Miami in total points if they secure a victory.

In contrast, Inter Miami has seen a resurgence, overcoming a rough patch earlier in the season to achieve 9 wins, 2 losses, and 4 draws in their last 15 matches across all competitions. They have climbed back into contention for the Supporters’ Shield and aim to maintain their strong form, even without superstar Lionel Messi, who recently sustained an injury.

Orlando’s tactical game, guided by head coach Oscar Pareja, typically employs a 4-2-3-1 formation. Pareja has adapted his approach as personnel changed, shifting to an asymmetrical style where only one fullback advances while the other maintains defensive coverage. Miami, meanwhile, has effectively used a variation of the 4-4-1-1, allowing Messi to play both as a forward and a playmaker.

This clash will not only test both teams’ strategies but also the adjustments made in recent weeks. Florida’s weather is expected to add another layer of challenge, and both teams recognize how crucial this match is for their playoff hopes.

Looking ahead, the spotlight will be on whether Messi can return from injury in time to play, although Miami fans hold out hope for a strong showing regardless. With the history of on-field tension between these two clubs, fans can anticipate an exciting matchup.

“Every point matters, and we want to secure a win,” Pareja said. “The goal differential could be crucial, so we have to approach this match aggressively.”