Few would equate the dynamics of college football with soccer. Somehow, the Magic City Clasico and the NPSL on a shortened schedule shares the chaos, uncertainty, and euphoria of NCAA football. Every game is a must win and the lack of an official “pre-season” means clubs are often thrown straight into the deep end. The University of Miami often had to deal with their season hanging in the balance with Florida State University being their first opponent throughout the 2000’s. For the winner, the path has been cleared for the rest of the campaign. For the loser, panic attacks and prayers hoping to salvage a damaged season. This is what the Magic City Clasico has become.
Despite not walking away with a trophy in 2018, Miami United had one of their best seasons to date. Would a deep run in NPSL playoffs have been great? Of course. United, however, managed to make an impressive run through the 2018 U.S. Open Cup with a roster of genuine unknown players to the local soccer scene. 2019 proves to be a tougher challenge, however, the pink and black have a chip on their shoulder.