Inter Miami CF II came away with its third draw of the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro season against Orlando City B at DRV PNK Stadium on Saturday night. The Herons earned the extra point in penalties, with the match featuring a goal from winger Felipe Valencia, marking his second of the 2023 campaign.
Inter Miami's Matchday 20 starting XI featured Owen Finnerty in goal; Cesar Abadia-Reda, Farid Sar-Sar, Tyler Hall, and Israel Boatwright forming the back four; Jack Pymm, Alejandro Flores De La Paz, and captain Lawson Sunderland in the middle; Lucas Meek and Valencia leading the attack alongside striker Shanyder Borgelin.
Inter Miami II came out the gates firing, opening the half with multiple scoring opportunities, notably, an off-the-post freekick by Sunderland. The Herons didn’t stop there though, as they continued putting pressure on Orlando’s backline, leading the first 30 minutes with high possession and shots.
In the 35th minute, Valencia had a breakaway goal after taking the ball from outside the box and perfectly placing it at the bottom left corner, giving Inter Miami II the lead, and going into the break 1-0.
After the halftime intermission, Inter Miami II kept the high intensity going and remained steady on the ball with great passes and all-around play. However, the visiting team would strike back in the 69th minute with a headed goal by Orlando defender Nabilai Kibunguch, coming off a cross from Jorge Almaguer.
Both teams continued to fight for the lead, but it was Finnerty who stole the show with outstanding saves in the last 10 minutes of the match and keeping Inter Miami II level towards the final whistle.
The match went into a penalty shootout, with Inter Miami II striking a perfect scoreline, going five for five on penalties. Meek would end up scoring the fifth and last penalty, giving Miami the extra point.
The Herons will now hit the road and travel to New York next week to take on New York City FC II on Thursday, August 10 at 8 p.m. ET at Belson Stadium.
