Touchline Talk presented by Al-Flex
Inter Miami CF hosted global powerhouse FC Barcelona on Tuesday, July 19 at DRV PNK Stadium in front of a sold out, electric South Florida crowd. The largest crowd ever recorded at DRV PNK Stadium of 19,113 fans and supporters provided an energetic soundtrack for the international friendly between the clubs.
Head coach Phil Neville praised the fans in attendance, noting how the evening’s atmosphere elevated the experience for both the players and technical staff.
“It was a brilliant occasion to play in. You could feel the buzz in the air from the supporters. We’ve now experienced what a sold out DRV PNK Stadium feels like, and I think from a playing point of view, the game was always going to be something to enjoy.”
Inter Miami CF defender, and 2022 MLS All-Star DeAndre Yedlin shared similar sentiments, saying that the fans’ support made the evening a special one.
“It was great. Like coach said, it was amazing to see DRV PNK Stadium full…It was loud, it was electric, and it made it really enjoyable to play.”
Yedlin also stressed how important an experience like playing against FC Barcelona is to the younger, continuously developing members of the squad.
“For a lot of the players who were playing tonight, they and I grew up idolizing those players. It was an amazing experience. I thought the younger players did well and it’s a great experience for them. At the end of the day, we take this experience and grow from it. There’s nothing better than growth.”
FC Barcelona defender Eric García also commended the capacity crowd at DRV PNK Stadium.
“It’s been a privilege for us being here, for it to be the record for a sold out game for Inter Miami. We are thankful for it, and we say thanks to all the fans that came out. It was an incredible game to play here, and hopefully we can come back in the future.”
Inter Miami CF is back to MLS action this weekend, traveling to face New York City FC on Saturday, July 23 at Yankee Stadium. The match will kick off at 7 p.m. ET, and will be streamed live on the Inter Miami App.