Josef Martínez takes control for Inter Miami in MLS 2023
Inter Miami, the Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise co-owned by David Beckham, has had a rollercoaster of a 2023 season, starting strong but then experiencing a significant dip in form. However, the team bounced back with back-to-back victories, including a 2-1 win against Atlanta United in Week 11. Venezuelan striker Josef Martínez played a crucial role in securing the win for Inter Miami at the DRV PNK Stadium in Florida.
Facing a team ranked higher in the MLS 2023 standings was no easy feat, but Inter Miami held their own against Thiago Almada's Atlanta United. Their triumph secured them tenth place in the Eastern Conference, with 12 points so far, just three points above bottom-placed NY Red Bull.
Martínez, who previously played for Atlanta United and became the top scorer with 111 goals across all competitions, inspired Inter Miami's victory. He scored the first goal from the penalty spot in the 59th minute, slipping his shot to the left of goalkeeper Quentin Westberg and electrifying the DRV PNK Stadium. The second goal came in the 79th minute, after a superb play from right-winger DeAndre Yedlin, who threaded a ball into Martínez for his second of the night.
Martínez's brace not only helped Inter Miami secure the win but also set a new record in the MLS. He became the fastest player to reach 100 regular-season goals, achieving the feat in just 142 appearances. The victory also took the pressure off Martínez, as it was the first time he had scored for Miami since joining in January.
Although Franco Negri's sending off and Atlanta's consolation goal added some complications, Inter Miami held on to clinch the vital three points. With Martínez leading the way, Inter Miami hopes to continue their upward trajectory and build on their recent success.