Four Takeaways From Inter Miami’s US Open Cup Win vs Tormenta FC

Inter Miami advances to the Round of 16 in the US Open Cup with a 3-1 win over Tormenta FC.

While the Herons went into the match looking for a comfortable victory, Tormenta did a phenomenal job of putting the pressure on the hosts.

Miami was pinned back into their side of the field for the majority of the first half.  The visitors looked far more threatening than the home side, and it took several Drake Callender saves to keep the game level.

Eventually, Miami took the lead with a nicely worked goal from Ariel Lassiter just before halftime:

Higuain ➡️ Vassilev ➡️ Lassiter➡️ ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/LFpzTQGId9 https://t.co/eO1UCeeDiv

— Alex Windley (@aaw_1998) May 11, 2022

Though Tormenta fought hard, Miami was able to extend their lead with goals by Robbie Robinson in the 46th minute and Lassiter in the 83rd.

pic.twitter.com/WruEU1Gnls https://t.co/jANbmQZtqZ

— Alex Windley (@aaw_1998) May 11, 2022

Although Miami got the win, there were plenty of storylines that will make for some intriguing talking points as the team gets set to take on DC United this weekend.

Here are four takeaways from Inter Miami’s US Open Cup win against Tormenta FC.

Neville Not Satisfied

Normally, advancing to the next round of a major tournament would be something to celebrate. But for Phil Neville, he wasn’t happy with the team’s performance:

Neville with some harsh words about the match:

"I thought the performance was unacceptable. Full credit to the opposition. They deserve to be in the next round."
#InterMiamiCF

— Alex Windley (@aaw_1998) May 11, 2022

Looking at the match, this isn’t an inaccurate assessment. Tormenta was the more dangerous side in the first half. Miami’s defense was sluggish, the midfield left gaps in behind, and the offense wasn’t clicking.

It was, quite frankly, ugly!

If it weren’t for Callender standing on his head to make numerous saves, Miami would’ve been down at least two goals:

10' | Callender with a great save 🚫 pic.twitter.com/AKzPA415ip

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) May 11, 2022

The Herons inevitably found their way through Tormenta’s defense, but for a couple of moments in the game, it could’ve been disastrous for the men in pink.

Neville also mentioned in his post game conference that there were various players who started the match that asked for game time but, weren’t up to the standards he demanded:

He also says some of the players on the pitch tonight were asking for game time, and he says that this performance tonight was the reason why they don't start most of the time.#InterMiamiCF

— Alex Windley (@aaw_1998) May 11, 2022

Strong words from the Englishman that will, surely, continue to be dissected as the week goes on.

Drake Callender, Future Number One?

On the flip side, not all of Neville’s post comments were negative. Drake Callender is steadily showing why he could be starting more consistently:

Neville says a poor attitude was the reason for the sluggish first half.

Says Drake Callender is challenging to be the number one starter as well.

"He had a phenomenal game." #InterMiamiCF

— Alex Windley (@aaw_1998) May 11, 2022

The 24-year-old made his presence known as he saved multiple shots from a solid Tormenta attack. If Nick Marsman continues to have injury issues, it may not be too far-fetched to say that Callender is slowly cementing himself as the future number one goalkeeper for Inter Miami.

Lassiter Scores

Other than Callender, Ariel Lassiter had a great game for Miami.

The Costa Rica international was lively down Miami’s right downside before switching to the left where he looked much more comfortable:

Neville on Lassiter: "He needed those goals. I was pleased with him."

Says Campana wasn't in the 18 because they're more or less resting him for DC.

Mota needed rest as well. Sailor had some hamstring tightness. #InterMiamiCF

— Alex Windley (@aaw_1998) May 11, 2022

His two-goal performance against Tormenta earned him the Man of the Match award.  Lassiter is showing why he’s becoming one of the first names Neville writes down on the teamsheet. His pace, speed, and experience are valuable for a rebuilding team like Miami.

WWE or Drive Pink Stadium?

Lastly, just after he scored to put Miami up 2-0, Robbie Robinson and Tormenta defender Jake Dengler got into a bit of a scrap:

pic.twitter.com/1Jowh3ahxs https://t.co/zXJm2J85PL

— Alex Windley (@aaw_1998) May 11, 2022

It was reminiscent of a school yard fight that didn’t have too much in it besides two people losing their cool. Both of them got sent off which saw their teams end the game with 10 men.

Because of this, Robinson will now miss Miami’s next match in the tournament, which will be a huge blow to Neville and his plans.