The Miami FC kicked off their 2024 USL Championship season with a solid 2-0 home win against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC on Saturday night. Miami's victory at FIU Stadium was particularly sweet for Antonio Nocerino, who celebrated his head coaching debut in the league with a win. "I am very happy for the players because tonight, was an incredible performance," Nocerino told CBS News Miami after the game.
Miami's new-look squad, featuring an almost entirely new starting XI, did take some time to gel, facing early pressure from the Switchbacks. The Switchbacks' Jairo Henriquez was a constant threat, hitting the post in the 8th and 15th minutes of the match. Miami goalkeeper Daniel Gagliardi made a pivotal save early on, fending off a close-range attempt by Switchbacks' Duke Lacroix. However, Miami gained their footing and their aggressive push forward paid off when Andrew Booth hammered home the first goal in the 16th minute as Miami converted their first real chance of the match, despite another attempt by Colorado Springs' Maalique Foster colliding with the woodwork later on.
Meanwhile, Colorado Springs' efforts were short of fruitful as their shot-decisiveness was off the mark. According to an article from OurSports Central, the Switchbacks dominated possession in the first half and had 15 shots to Miami's three, yet couldn't find the back of the net. Their possession strength didn't translate into goals, and the frustration only compounded when Miami's offense sprang to action in the latter part of the game with sharp plays leading up to their second score.
The game’s momentum changed hands repeatedly until the 85th minute, when Miami was awarded a penalty. Manuel Botta stepped up and confidently drilled the ball to the left corner, securing the final 2-0 result. "I think it went really well, what could I expect better. 2-0 victory on the opener and we got to thank our fans for coming here," Botta shared in his post-match sentiment with CBS News Miami.
Hosting Sacramento Republic FC on March 16th, hoping to carry forward their winning momentum as the season unfolds.
