Leo Campana’s Stoppage-Time Heroics Keep Inter Miami Flying High
In a thrilling climax to the regular season, Leo Campana’s stoppage-time goal propelled Inter Miami to a 1-0 victory over Toronto FC, leaving the Canadian side’s playoff aspirations hanging by a thread. The match, held at BMO Field, was a microcosm of Toronto’s struggles this season, as they needed a win to keep their postseason hopes alive but ultimately fell short.
Toronto FC’s Playoff Hopes Dashed
Entering the weekend, Toronto FC (TFC) was in ninth place in Major League Soccer’s Eastern Conference, with a record of 11 wins, 19 losses, and 4 draws, totaling 37 points. Their path to the playoffs was clear: a victory against Miami and favorable results from other matches. However, as fate would have it, D.C. United’s 2-1 win over New England later that day sealed Toronto’s fate, officially eliminating them from playoff contention.
Despite the stakes, TFC could not capitalize on their opportunities. They dominated possession and outshot Miami 15-4, including a 7-2 advantage in shots on target. Yet, the lack of a clinical edge in front of goal has been a recurring theme for Toronto this season. Coach John Herdman lamented, "We are not as ruthless or as clinical as other teams," highlighting the stark contrast between TFC’s struggles and Miami’s efficiency.
Miami’s Tactical Mastery
Inter Miami, on the other hand, showcased their tactical prowess even with stars like Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez starting on the bench. Coach Tata Martino opted to rest his key players, having already secured first place in the Eastern Conference. This decision allowed Miami to field a fresh lineup while still maintaining their competitive edge.
The match turned in Miami’s favor in the dying moments when Campana, who had been instrumental throughout the game, seized the opportunity to score. After dispossessing Toronto midfielder Alonso Coello, he received a perfectly placed ball from Luis Suarez. Campana controlled it deftly before unleashing a powerful shot past Toronto goalkeeper Sean Johnson, marking his eighth goal of the season and sending the Miami supporters into raptures.
A Night of Missed Opportunities for Toronto
Despite the absence of key players like Federico Bernardeschi, who was suspended, and a limited appearance from Lorenzo Insigne due to injury, Toronto had their chances. They controlled the game for long stretches, but their inability to convert possession into goals ultimately cost them dearly. Herdman’s frustration was palpable as he noted, "I thought our lads did everything but score. … Same old story."
Toronto’s recent form has been disheartening, with just one point from their last five matches (0-4-1), including three home games. This lack of momentum in the final stretch of the season has left fans and players alike reflecting on what could have been.
The Messi Effect
As always, Lionel Messi was the focal point of attention, even while on the bench. The crowd erupted in chants of "Messi, Messi" when he finally entered the match in the 61st minute. His presence alone was enough to elevate the atmosphere at BMO Field, with fans eager to catch a glimpse of the Argentine superstar.
In a heartwarming moment, Messi paused to take a selfie with a young pitch invader in the 86th minute, showcasing his approachable nature. However, not all pitch invaders received such a warm welcome, as an older fan was swiftly escorted off the field moments later.
Miami’s Historic Season
With this victory, Inter Miami (21-4-8) not only secured their place at the top of the Eastern Conference but also kept their sights set on breaking the league’s single-season points record of 73, set by New England in 2021. Miami’s impressive tally of 71 points with one game remaining puts them in elite company, joining the ranks of only a few teams to have reached the 70-point milestone in MLS history.
The win also marked Miami’s 11th away victory of the season, tying them with CF Montreal for the most road wins in a single season during the post-shootout era. Their unbeaten streak in league play now stands at 10 matches (7-0-3), with their last loss occurring on July 6 against Cincinnati.
Looking Ahead
As the regular season draws to a close, Toronto FC will have to reflect on a season filled with missed opportunities and lessons learned. With a bye on October 19, they will watch the final slate of games from the sidelines, hoping to regroup and come back stronger in 2024. Meanwhile, Inter Miami will continue to build on their momentum as they prepare for the playoffs, aiming to capitalize on their stellar season and make a deep run in the postseason.