2023 U.S. Open Cup: Inter Miami 2-1 Nashville SC
Franco Negri and Nicolas Stefanelli scored on each side of halftime to push the Herons into the quarterfinals for the first time in franchise history
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Phil Neville entered Tuesday under a new wave of pressure after one of Inter Miami’s largest supporters groups publicly called for his firing one day prior, but his team responded by making history.
Nicolas Stefanelli came off the bench and provided the game-winner as Inter Miami edged Nashville SC, 2-1, on Tuesday night to move into the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open Cup. The South Florida side had seen an initial lead slip away in the lightning-delayed match at Drv Pnk Stadium, but Stefanelli scored seconds after entering the game with an authoritative finish.
The victory saw the Herons advance past the tournament’s Round of 16 for the first time in franchise history. Inter Miami will face the winner of Wednesday’s tussle between Charlotte FC and Birmingham Legion in the quarterfinals, which will be played on June 6 or 7.
Neville’s men will return to the field in four days, visiting former Inter Miami player Bryce Duke and CF Montreal on Saturday night.
Inter Miami: Franco Negri (Robert Taylor) 57’
Nashville SC: Alex Muyl (Laurence Wyke) 66’
Inter Miami: Nicolas Stefanelli (Corentin Jean) 73’
With this team at least when I comes to results is highs and lows. Hopefully they can figure out an identity that gives them consistency. I want Phill to surprise me and get this party started!