In a highly-anticipated friendly clash in Riyadh, Al Nassr showcased their dominance by trouncing Inter Miami 6-0.
The spectacle, initially poised for a showdown between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, took an unexpected turn as Ronaldo’s calf injury sidelined him from the match, thwarting what could have been a last showdown with his long-time rival.
The absence of Ronaldo didn’t hinder Al Nassr’s performance, with Brazilian Talisca stealing the spotlight through a remarkable hat-trick.
The Saudi Pro League side exhibited their prowess early on, scoring three goals within the first 12 minutes. Otavio’s opener, coupled with Talisca’s second, set the tone as Aymeric Laporte added a stunning long-range free-kick, leaving Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender helpless.
Talisca continued his goal-scoring spree with a penalty early in the second half, and Mohammed Maran further compounded Miami’s misery with a looping header. Despite the presence of former Barcelona stars Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba in the Miami lineup, the gulf in class was evident throughout the match.
As Talisca completed his treble, mimicking Ronaldo’s signature celebration, Lionel Messi made a late entrance into the game with just seven minutes remaining, facing a daunting six-goal deficit. The match underscored Al Nassr’s prowess and left Inter Miami grappling with the effects of an extensive pre-season tour.
Inter Miami, headed to Asia for further pre-season games in Hong Kong and Japan, continues preparations for the upcoming MLS season, set to kick off on February 21.
Their Middle East journey included matches against El Salvador and FC Dallas, offering crucial insights into their form and readiness for the challenges ahead.
Ada Peter
