Puebla vs Inter Miami - Preview, Predictions, and Key Insights

The 2024 Leagues Cup kicks off with a thrilling matchup between Puebla and Inter Miami at Chase Stadium on July 28, 2024. As Inter Miami begins the defense of their title, they face a Puebla side looking to bounce back from a challenging start in Liga MX. This article provides an in-depth preview, predictions, and key insights into the match.

Match Details

• Date: July 28, 2024
• Time: 3:00 AM (UK)
• Venue: Chase Stadium, Miami, Florida
• Competition: Leagues Cup, Group East 3, Round 1

Match Preview

Puebla: Searching for Form

Puebla has had a turbulent start to the 2024 Apertura season, sitting 12th in the Liga MX standings with just four points from four matches. Under the leadership of José Manuel de la Torre, the team has struggled defensively, conceding eight goals, the joint-second most in the league. Despite their struggles, Puebla has shown resilience, often scoring late in matches, including stoppage-time goals.

Recent Form and Key Players

Puebla's recent form in all competitions includes a win, a draw, and three losses. Their only goal against Atlas in the last match came from Lucas Cavallini, who has been a consistent scorer this season. The team will rely on Cavallini's sharpness in front of goal and the defensive solidity of Brayan Angulo to challenge Inter Miami.

Key Players to Watch:

• Lucas Cavallini: The Canadian forward has been in good form, tied in the Golden Boot race with four goals.
• Brayan Angulo: The experienced defender will be crucial in shoring up Puebla's backline.
• Santiago Ormeño: Returning from injury, Ormeño could provide an additional offensive threat.

Inter Miami: The Defending Champions

Inter Miami enters this match as the reigning Leagues Cup champions, having impressed throughout the 2024 season. Under the guidance of Tata Martino, Miami leads the MLS Supporters' Shield race with 56 goals, the highest in the league. The team has shown remarkable attacking prowess, averaging 2.24 goals per game, and boasts a deep roster capable of scoring from multiple positions.

Recent Form and Key Players

Miami's recent form includes four wins in their last six matches, highlighted by a 2-1 victory over the Chicago Fire. Despite a heavy 6-1 loss to FC Cincinnati, Miami has bounced back, showing resilience and depth even in the potential absence of key players like Lionel Messi, who is doubtful due to an ankle injury.

Key Players to Watch:

• Lionel Messi: The Argentine superstar is questionable for this match, but his presence would be a game-changer.
• Matias Rojas: The midfielder scored an early goal against Chicago and has been a key playmaker.
• Jordi Alba: The experienced left-back provides defensive solidity and attacking support, having scored the winner against Chicago.

Team News

Puebla

Puebla will likely see Efrain Orona and Pablo Gonzalez in the starting lineup, replacing Sebastian Olmedo and Kevin Velasco from previous matches. Santiago Ormeño is expected to feature after his recent appearance off the bench.

Predicted Lineup:
Rodriguez; Ferrareis, Gularte, Orona, Angulo; de Buen; Alvarez, Castillo, Garcia, Velasco; Cavallini

Inter Miami

Inter Miami has a few injury concerns. Lionel Messi's availability remains uncertain due to an ankle issue, while Serhiy Kryvtsov, Nicolas Freire, and Facundo Farias are also dealing with injuries. Additionally, Diego Gomez and Benjamin Cremaschi are away at the Olympics.

Predicted Lineup:
Callender; Weigandt, Aviles, Fray, Alba; Redondo, Busquets, Rojas; Gressel, Suarez, Taylor

Match Prediction

Inter Miami's attacking depth and strong form make them favorites in this encounter. Puebla's defensive vulnerabilities could be exploited by Miami's potent attack, even if Messi does not play. The Herons' ability to control the game and capitalize on scoring opportunities gives them the edge.

Prediction: Puebla 1-2 Inter Miami

Conclusion

This Leagues Cup opener between Puebla and Inter Miami promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams looking to make a strong start in the tournament. While Puebla will aim to improve their defensive record, Inter Miami's offensive firepower and recent form suggest they are well-positioned to secure a victory.