Cincinnati leads the Eastern Conference with a seven-point margin over Miami, having previously defeated them 3-0. Despite Miami's recent win against New York Red Bulls, manager Javier Mascherano emphasized the need for strong defense to compete. Cincinnati's form includes six wins in seven matches, solidifying their top position. They recently achieved a narrow win against Real Salt Lake, while Miami’s Messi and Alba are suspended, adding more pressure. Cincinnati's manager, Pat Noonan, anticipates a stronger performance from Miami in their upcoming rematch.
"We know that if we want to be competitive - not just in the MLS, but in all competitions - we need to be very, very good in defense," manager Javier Mascherano said after Miami's impressive 5-1 win last Saturday at a New York Red Bulls side who have one of the best home records in the division.
"In a short amount of time, you go play [Miami] again at their place, so they'll be motivated, and I imagine they improve from the first performance," said manager Pat Noonan.
Cincinnati have won six and lost one of their last seven games to stand a point above Philadelphia at the summit, following up their thrashing of Miami with a 1-0 win at Real Salt Lake on Sunday courtesy of winger Luca Orellanos 87th-minute goal.
While Messi and Alba have been suspended for a match for missing the All-Star Game in Austin on Wednesday, in-form Cincinnati midfielder Evander captained the victorious MLS team and had scored eight goals in five matches - including two against Miami - before a rare blank against Salt Lake.
Collection
[
|
...
]