Miami, FL – #VamosMiami! Futbol is back! The Miami FC kicked off its title defense Saturday night hosting crosstown rivals Miami United FC at Barry University in the Magic City Clásico. An exciting first half saw the Orange and Blue win its first Clásico clash, 2-0, with tremendous goals by Darío Suárez and Tomas Granitto. It also saw its share of yellow cards as well, seven of them in total. Last season the two teams earned draws in their first two meetings, followed by Miami United defeating Miami FC in the Second Round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.
Halftime at the @NPSLSoccer opener and @TheMiamiFC is up 2-0 on #MiamiUnited after a couple of wonder goals tonight! #VamosMiami #MagicCityClasico #MIAvMUFC pic.twitter.com/chdb21tHLn
— Lemon City Live (@LemonCityLive) April 21, 2019
“I’ll be honest, sometimes you gotta hold your hands up, we didn’t really follow the game plan today. It was the emotion took over and we got involved in a local derby … the two goals were absolutely incredible.” Miami FC Head Coach, Paul Dalglish after the game.
The reigning NPSL National Champions looked in mid-season for most of the game. Dario Suarez opened up the scoring in the 34′ minute, blasting a rocket from the right flank well outside the penalty area and into the back of the net. Miami FC newcomer and former Miami United star Tomas Granitto tacked on the second goal in the 45′ minute, curling it in from the corner kick, olimpico style. Just like that, it was 2-0 Miami FC at the half.
Physics, Gravity and Geometry are not things @suarezdario92 worries himself with!!! #QueGolazo #SCtop10https://t.co/rLPueJ8Wy8
— Miami FC (@TheMiamiFC) April 21, 2019
The second half really showed how well and deep this Miami team is right now. Dylan Mares dominated the early parts of the second half, continually finding space in and around the Miami United box. Creating a few scoring chances, but failing to convert them.
“We’re showing a lot of team unity. Especially in the beginning, I think we did a great job and came out and did what we needed to do.” Said Mares after the game.
The Magic City Clásico action does not stop, as the Second Leg of the 2019 season will be held next Saturday, April 27th at Miami United FC. Recently, Miami United announced that they will be changing home venues for the season, and will now play at North Miami Athletic Stadium (2555 NE 151st Street, North Miami Beach, FL 33160). Kickoff will be at 7:30 PM and tickets can be purchased at MiamiUnitedSoccer.com.
Game Notes
- Robert Baggio Kcira made his long-awaited return from injury, only to see it cut short in the 5′ minute after his knee appeared to buckle. He was immediately subbed off for Marco Franco. Hoping he has a speedy recovery.
- Three of the largest supporters groups for Miami MLS team, Inter Miami CF attended the game to cheer on their support of local soccer. Vice City 1886, Southern Legion, and Seige Miami cheered along with Dade Brigade, La 12 United and the rest of the crowds.
- It was a sellout crowd of 1,252 fans in attendance.
- Kudos to both teams looking #CertifiedFresh. Miami FC with the classic look, and Miami United debuted some gorgeous new black kits with hot pink numbers.
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