Soccer is perhaps the only sport where a title fight gets a rematch so quickly. Anthony Joshua would probably offer a king’s ransom to get the opportunity that Naples United have been afforded by the NPSL scheduling matrix. As you may recall, Naples got the early lead against the Miami FC last weekend. However, Miguel Gonzalez would have much to say before the match was over. Can Miami avoid disaster in a rematch?
Naples United has been as defensively impressive as any team in the NPSL in the 2019 season. Without having a potent attack, their defense has been the spark to a surprising run. The truth is, despite their lost last week, Naples still controls their own destiny in the Sunshine conference. A win on the road against Miami would put them in the drivers seat heading into the post-season.
The Keys To A Miami FC Victory
Unfortunately for us, there is no video evidence of how Miami conceded the first goal of last week’s contest. Short a defensive error from the back-line one is left to assume that it was a diagonal ball over the top that sprung Naples to an early lead. That has been the key to unlocking this Miami FC side so far this season. With Lloyd Sam and Othello Bah now patrolling the right flank, manager Paul Dalglish has put speed at a premium. Expect Miami to have Lance Rozeboom patrolling the defensive midfield to assist John Neeskens and Brenton Griffiths in dispelling any Naples attacking waves.
On the attack you wouldn’t be blamed if the game plan was “get the ball to Miguel”. Miami’s attacking talisman has scored 13 goals in his past 6 NPSL games. Dylan Mares will likely look for Mohamed Thiaw to hold up the backline and wait for the pace of Gonzalez to fly through unmarked. This combination has to numerous goals for Miami including this one below against Central Florida SC.
#AnatomyOfAGoal: From End to End in the Blink of an Eye
The ball started at Pais' feet and ended up in the back of the other net in just 5 touches! The #BeautifulGame in action! #VamosTeamwork
📖: https://t.co/unxhmpLerX pic.twitter.com/IQf7ok523m
— The Miami FC (@TheMiamiFC) June 20, 2019
Prediction
For Miami, every game is a playoff game the rest of the way through the NPSL campaign. In order to secure home field advantage for the Sunshine Conference, Miami must walk away from this match with at least a draw. In order to secure home field advantage through the Southern Region, the Orange and Blue has to earn a victory. The gauntlet has been running for quite some time, but Miami has to win each of their next seven matches to for a chance to defend their national championship on home soil. It’s one game at a time from here on out and certainly Dalglish has shared that with his squad. Expect Miami to earn another victory this time in front of the Miami faithful.
The Miami FC 3 – 0 Naples United
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