Miami, FL. (August 25th, 2023)
As the week nears its end, Miami FC gears up for a Saturday matchup against Tampa Bay Rowdies at the FIU Stadium. Tickets are already on sale at miamifc.com. The game will be ESPN+, and YouTube for international viewers.
Riding their recent wave of success after a resounding 0-3 victory at Hartford, Miami will build on their recent form in hopes of ascending the USL table rankings against their in-state rivals.
Miami enters the matchup boasting an impressive recent campaign, winning four out of their last five matches. The teamโs recent success is a testament to their offensive creativity, led by USL Week 24 Player of the Week, Joaquรญn Rivas. Rivas has been on an electric run in his last three appearances, bagging an impressive tally of five goals across these encounters. Notably, his most recent outing against Hartford saw him shine brilliantly by contributing a hat-trick masterpiece.
However, the Miami attack will not be met without resistance. Tampa’s compact defensive line has been dependable all season, stifling offenses with their organization and discipline across the back. It will be interesting to see how Miami dissects the Tampa Bay defense, which on average concedes less than a goal per match.
Tampa Bay also enters the match in commendable form, winning three of their last four matches. One player to watch on the Tampa Bay side is forward JJ Williams. Williams has been the most consistent offensive performer for the club, scoring 10 goals and registering five assists so far this season. Tampa Bay likes to facilitate their offense through Williams, so the Miami defenders will have a notable task tracking him for 90 minutes.
Currently, the Miami FC community is buzzing with excitement as Miami finds itself neck and neck in points with FC Tulsa. Tensions are high as Miami looks to surpass Tulsa with a win or draw Saturday, pushing for a coveted playoff spot. After Tulsaโs most recent loss, Miami has a golden opportunity to surge ahead in the USL rankings and enter the playoff conversation. All eyes are on the highly anticipated clash, where victory isn’t just a desire, but also a potential ticket to the playoffs.
