Inter Miami must silence these two D.C United stars to stay on track | OneFootball

Inter Miami is traveling to Washington, D.C. to face the Black and Red. This game could decide their playoff spot or whether they stay in the postseason race.

The Herons are in fifth place, just four points ahead of New York City FC, who are currently out of the playoffs.

Javier Mascherano has to think about this game, because the Jefecito won’t have Jordi Alba and Lionel Messi for Saturday. Knowing that D.C United is last in the Conference, the coach could rotate the team and leave some players resting.

Despite any possible tactics, the Herons won’t achieve victory if they don’t stop these two players first.

Christian Benteke

CF Montreal v D.C. United | Tim Austen/GettyImages

The veteran striker is once again the team's goalscorer, with 8 goals. The former Premier League forward would be a constant threat to Luján and Falcón cause of his strength in the air and physical presence.

Looking at the Heron's ability to handle big guys, Benteke will deal with both of them, leaving plenty of space for other rival players.

That’s D.C. United’s offensive approach with Benteke: Using him as an anchor to pin defenders and create spaces for others. Still, if that’s not the case, the 34-year-old striker can control and shoot without trouble.

Gabriel Pirani

CF Montreal v D.C. United | Tim Austen/GettyImages

The 23-year-old is the brain behind the offensive scheme of the Black and Red. Before we talk about how Benteke is used to pin defenders, leaving spaces for other players like Pirani, who has an impressive long-range shot.

He connects the midfield with the attack, finding passes between lines and opening spaces others don’t see. His constant mobility will be a problem for Inter Miami if they don’t have someone with him.

The Herons must control him, as he is the first option for a clean exit from behind, and he dictates the rhythm for the rest of the team.