MLS
Tata Martino and the “privilege” of having Messi: “We showed character to secure the draw”
Inter Miami’s Argentine coach, Tata Martino, had high praise for his captain and goalkeeper, as his side salvaged a tie against LA Galaxy.
Inter Miami managed to pull off a dramatic draw against LA Galaxy, thanks to a last-minute goal from Messi during stoppage time. The team, whose performance fluctuated across the game, were able to stay in the match largely due to the heroic saves of goalkeeper Drake Callender. The result keeps the Florida team unbeaten through the first two rounds of the regular season.
Following the match, Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino spoke to the media about the game and the performance of several of his players. The Argentine coach was candid about a match that, for much of the 90 minutes, saw LA Galaxy on top.
Tata’s analysis of the draw with LA Galaxy
Martino answered questions with his usual kindness and calm demeanour, offering positive remarks on the team’s response and detailing the strategies that led to their hard-fought draw: “We were outplayed in the first half. We could have gone into the halftime with goals against us. In the second half, we conceded a goal on the counterattack, but we showed the character to equalize.”
Callender
“He was decisive again. It’s largely thanks to him that the team was still in the match after the first half.”
Playing out from the back
“The team chooses to play that way and we usually do work to have that fluid circulation. It is also true that Galaxy decided not to press and the initial passes were quite comfortable.”
Diego Gómez
“Diego ended the game with cramps, but I believe it’s nothing serious.”
‘Toto’ Avilés and the privilege of having Messi
The young Argentine defender spoke after the match about the team’s objectives and Miami’s two heroes in the encounter: “Thank God, we started the year in the best way (victory against Real Salt Lake). Taking a point from this match also adds to our tally, but we know we need to earn more points if we want to be champions this year.”
Messi
“We are privileged to have Leo. It makes a difference and we are very happy to have it close.”
Callender
We know all about Drake’s quality as a goalkeeper, which is why he was picked for the [U.S.] national team. Having him helps us a lot.”