Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino criticized his team’s mindset strongly on Saturday after a harsh 4-0 defeat by New York Red Bulls. Miami, without the injured Lionel Messi, struggled at New York’s Red Bull Arena, where former Inter player Lewis Morgan scored an impressive hat-trick.
While Martino admitted his part in the loss, he mainly blamed his players, including big signings Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba.
“We were outplayed throughout the game,” Martino said after the defeat. “Red Bulls wanted to win, and we didn’t have the same drive to compete. When one team lacks the will to win, while the other team is determined, the latter will come out on top.”
Martino didn’t attribute the loss to Messi’s absence, noting they had won 3-1 against D.C. United last week without him. Former Miami player Morgan was exceptional, contributing significantly to New York’s victory.
Scotland’s Morgan, who joined Major League Soccer after playing for Celtic, St. Mirren, and Sunderland, put New York in the lead just three minutes into the game. Miami struggled to create chances, with Suarez’s shot being their best attempt in the first half.
Morgan extended New York’s lead early in the second half and then played a crucial role in setting up their third goal. He completed his hat-trick later in the game, sealing a comprehensive win for New York.
The victory put New York level with Columbus Crew and Miami at the top of the Eastern Conference with 10 points each. Columbus leads on goal difference, with Miami in second place.
In other MLS matches on Saturday, the New England Revolution earned their first point of the season with a 1-1 draw against the Chicago Fire. Nacho Gil scored for the Revs just before halftime, canceling out Hugo Cuypers’ earlier goal for Chicago.
