Inter Miami Held to 0-0 Draw Against Universitario.

Inter Miami 0-0 Universitario: Player Ratings as Herons Draw Consecutive Preseason Games.
                    

            The Herons couldn't find a way through against Universitario on the night with just three preseason games remaining. Inter Miami drew 0–0 with Club Universitario de Deportes in their second preseason match of 2025. Javier Mascherano rolled out a similar starting lineup to the one that played Club America earlier in January outside of Oscar Ustari and Tadeo Allende.

There were chances at both ends throughout the game, though neither side found a way through. Mascherano will be relatively disappointed with the team's overall performance given the lack of clear-cut chances created. It's just preseason, but Mascherano has a tall task in front of him in terms of replicating Tata Martino's success last season.

The Argentine did stick with a 4-4-2 formation with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez operating up top. He'll be happy with a clean sheet given the two goals conceded last time out, and there's still three more preseason games to get things right offensively. The two teams did complete a penalty shootout, as is customary in preseason.

Next up is a trip to Panama to face Sporting San Miguelito, followed by a game in Honduras against Olimpia before returning home for their final preseason game against rival Orlando City SC.

Player Ratings from the Night in Lima, Peru
Inter Miami Player Ratings vs. Universitario (4-4-2)

Ratings Provided by Fotmob

GK: Oscar Ustari - 7.9/10

RB: Marcelo Weigandt - 6.9/10

CB: Tomas Aviles - 7.0/10

CB: Noah Allen - 7.3/10

LB: Jordi Alba - 7.5/10

CM: Federico Redondo - 6.5/10

CM: Sergio Busquets - 7.1/10

LM: Fafa Picault - 6.5/10

RM: Tadeo Allende - 5.8/10

ST: Luis Suarez - 6.4/10

ST: Lionel Messi - 6.8/10

SUB: Benjamin Cremaschi - 6.6/10

SUB: Yannick Bright - 6.1/10

SUB: David Ruiz - 6.4/10

SUB: Julian Gressel - 5.8/10

SUB: Robert Taylor - 6.3/10

SUB: Santiago Morales - 6.1/10

SUB: Ian Fray - 6.1/10

SUB: Ryan Sailor - N/A
Player of the Match: Oscar Ustari
Inter Miami vs. Universitario: Penalty Shootout Result

Inter Miami defeated Universitario 5-4 in the shootout
What This Means for Inter Miami

Despite the stalemate, the match provided valuable minutes to key players as the team continues to build chemistry under Mascherano. The emphasis on defensive solidity was evident, as Inter Miami managed to secure a clean sheet against a competitive Universitario side. However, the lack of clear-cut chances and finishing touch up front remains a concern.

With three preseason games left, Mascherano will be keen to improve the team’s offensive execution. Upcoming fixtures against Sporting San Miguelito, Olimpia, and Orlando City will serve as further opportunities to refine tactics and establish consistency ahead of the 2025 MLS season opener.

Tactical Adjustments and Areas of Improvement

Mascherano's approach in the preseason suggests a commitment to solidifying defensive structures while maintaining offensive flexibility. While the 4-4-2 setup has provided balance, the lack of creativity and final-third efficiency has hindered the team’s progress. Messi and Suarez, despite their experience, struggled to break down Universitario’s disciplined defense. The midfield, led by Busquets and Redondo, maintained control but lacked incisiveness in passing.

Going forward, Mascherano may consider slight modifications, such as adjusting the positioning of wingers or incorporating a more attack-minded midfield presence. Players like Benjamin Cremaschi and Robert Taylor could play a bigger role in providing support to the forwards.

Defensive Stability and Key Performances

One of the biggest positives from the match was Inter Miami’s defensive organization. Jordi Alba, Noah Allen, and Tomas Aviles put in strong performances, limiting Universitario to minimal clear-cut opportunities. Ustari's goalkeeping heroics ensured that Miami walked away with a clean sheet, reaffirming his position as a key asset in goal.

As the team prepares for the remaining preseason matches, the focus will likely be on balancing defensive solidity with attacking creativity. Mascherano will need to find ways to bring the best out of his attacking stars while ensuring the backline remains resilient.

Looking Ahead: Next Challenges for Inter Miami

Inter Miami’s upcoming fixtures will serve as crucial tests ahead of the MLS season. The match against Sporting San Miguelito will offer another opportunity to assess the squad’s progress, particularly in terms of offensive efficiency. The game against Olimpia in Honduras could be one of the tougher challenges, given their strong defensive record.

With Orlando City SC awaiting in the final preseason fixture, Inter Miami will want to build momentum and iron out their weaknesses. Mascherano’s challenge is clear: transform a squad full of stars into a cohesive and efficient unit that can dominate games both offensively and defensively.

Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as Inter Miami continues their preseason preparations.