In their first road game of the 2024 MLS Next Pro season, Inter Miami CF II and the New York Red Bulls II were able to draw this afternoon. Leo Afonso scored two thrilling goals for the draw.
After being selected by Inter Miami CF in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft, the goals were Afonso’s second and third career goals. Jack Pymm, a midfielder, received his first assist of the 2024 MLS Next Pro season in this match as well. The home side earned an extra point in penalties.
The Herons’ starting XI featured Cole Jensen in goal; Nyk Sessock, Tyler Hall, Tye Barton and Samuel Basabe made up the back four; captain Santiago Morales, Yannick Bright, and Pep Casas, started in midfield; forwards, Jack Pymm, Afonso and Bryan Destin, lead the team’s attack.
The opponents opened up the match with an early goal in the 8th minute, with New York Red Bull’s Julian Hall finding the back of the net.
Inter Miami II struck back with a debut goal from Academy product Afonso in the 40th minute. The goal featured Pymm first assist of the 2024 MLS Next Pro season, leveling the match 1-1. Miami then opened up the second half strong, instantly taking control.
The Red Bulls’ would strike back in the 50th minute with a PK by NYRB II’s forward Ibrahim Kasule. As the NYRB take the lead, both teams continued to fight for the match-winner. However, the opponents struck back again taking the lead in the 66th minute with Ibrahim Kasule scoring his second goal of the night and third goal of the match.
It was Inter Miami CF II’s Afonso who notched the 79th minute brace, marking the 2024 MLS Superdraft’ second goal of the night. Nevertheless, within a few minutes after Afonso’s goal, the Herons closed out the second half with a perfectly placed first assist of the season from Afonso to Sessock to equalize the scoreline, 3-3.
The scoreline held until the final whistle with Inter Miami CF II drawing 3-3 with the home team earning an extra point in penalties (4-3.) Notably, this match saw professional debuts of Inter Miami CF II Academy products Mateo Turletti, Mateo Saja, and Daniel Pinter.
The Herons will hit the road once again and next week to take on in-state rival Orlando City B on Tuesday, April 2 at 6 pm ET.
