Inter Miami Player Ratings: Rodriguez Shines in 1-1 Draw

Inter Miami player ratings took center stage as the Herons fought to a dramatic 1-1 draw on the road against D.C. United, with Baltasar Rodriguez’s spectacular goal saving a point for a team missing Lionel Messi.

Inter Miami Player Ratings: Challenging Night Without Messi

Inter Miami player ratings reflected a night of significant changes and tough challenges. With Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba sidelined due to injury, and stars like Sergio Busquets and Luis Suarez starting on the bench, head coach Javier Mascherano opted for a much-rotated lineup. The result was a lack of attacking fluency and defensive vulnerability, especially in the first half.

D.C. United took advantage early in the match. Teenager Jackson Hopkins reacted quickest to a loose ball in the Miami box, slotting home the opener and leaving the Herons chasing the game. Miami’s attacking efforts were muted in the opening 45 minutes, as they failed to register a single shot on target.

Baltasar Rodriguez’s Brilliance Saves the Day

The second half saw a spark from Miami. Baltasar Rodriguez nearly equalized when his powerful drive rattled the post, and full-back Noah Allen forced a superb save from D.C. United’s keeper. The breakthrough finally came just past the hour mark: Rodriguez unleashed a sensational half-volley from 25 yards out, soaring into the top corner to level the score.

D.C. United thought they had regained the lead when Jacob Murrell found the net, but the goal was correctly ruled out for offside. Inter Miami nearly snatched a winner as Rodrigo De Paul’s free kick struck the post in the dying minutes.

Full Inter Miami Player Ratings vs. D.C. United

• Drake Callender (GK) – 6/10: Had little chance with the goal, but distributed well under pressure.
• DeAndre Yedlin (RB) – 6/10: Provided energy but struggled to contain D.C. United’s wingers.
• Tomas Aviles (CB) – 6/10: Composed but sometimes exposed by quick attacks.
• Serhiy Kryvtsov (CB) – 5.5/10: Caught out in transition on a few occasions.
• Noah Allen (LB) – 6.5/10: A lively presence going forward, nearly scored.
• Julian Gressel (CM) – 5.5/10: Inconsistent influence in midfield play.
• David Ruiz (CM) – 6/10: Worked hard but lacked creative spark.
• Baltasar Rodriguez (CM) – 7.5/10: Scored a stunning equalizer and lifted Miami’s tempo.
• Leo Campana (FW) – 5.5/10: Struggled for service, limited impact.
• Robert Taylor (FW) – 6/10: Showed flashes of skill but lacked end product.
• Shanyder Borgelin (FW) – 5.5/10: Worked hard off the ball, but few chances.

Substitutes: Busquets, De Paul, Suarez, among others, added needed experience but couldn’t break the deadlock.

Rodriguez Impresses Amid Injury Setbacks

Rodriguez’s display was a major positive, as his energy and technical ability helped Miami claw back into the match. With Messi and Alba out, and Busquets and Suarez limited, Miami’s younger players had to step up. The team showed resilience, but gaps in quality and experience were apparent.

Key Moments and Tactical Analysis

Miami’s defensive structure was tested early, as D.C. United pressed high and forced mistakes. The midfield lacked control until experienced heads entered from the bench. The Herons’ improvement after halftime came as they pushed numbers forward and took more risks.

Rodriguez’s goal was a reminder of the team’s depth and talent outside their star names. Still, the reliance on moments of brilliance rather than cohesive team play remains a concern as the season progresses.

What’s Next for Inter Miami?

This draw means Inter Miami’s player ratings will be scrutinized as they head into a crucial Leagues Cup semifinal clash. With Messi’s return date uncertain, Mascherano may need to continue trusting his squad’s depth. For more news on Inter Miami and global football, check for more news.

Opinion: A Step Forward, But Work Remains

Inter Miami showed resilience to earn a point away from home, but the performance highlighted how much they rely on their star players for creativity and control. Rodriguez’s heroics offer hope, but unless the team finds more balance and consistent attacking threat, progress will be slow. The upcoming fixtures will be a real test of Miami’s depth and ambition.