Brazilian midfielder Casemiro made a strong debut for Inter Miami, playing the full match in a 1-0 victory over CF Montréal this past Saturday. However, the celebration was overshadowed by a harrowing incident involving Mexican forward Germán Berterame, who was taken off the field in an ambulance after a severe collision.
As reported by El Nuevo Herald, Berterame was involved in an aerial clash with Montreal’s Bolivian defender Efraín Morales. The impact left Berterame seemingly unconscious on the pitch. Colombian player Brayan Vera urgently called for medical assistance. After several tense minutes of on-field treatment, Berterame was stretchered off and transported by an ambulance that drove onto the field.
Inter Miami's coach, Guillermo Hoyos, sought to reassure fans and media after the match, saying, "He is recovering well, conscious, and his family is informed. They are calm. The priority is his well-being, and he is okay now."
Coach Hoyos added, "The initial impact was alarming, but Berterame is currently undergoing tests in a Montreal clinic." The club's medical report later confirmed that Berterame sustained injuries to his left shoulder and nose. He remained under observation overnight at Montreal General Hospital and was subsequently discharged.
Ironically, the sole goal of the match stemmed from the foul that injured Berterame. Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez converted a penalty in the 81st minute with a Panenka-style shot, marking his sixth goal in three matches and his ninth of the MLS season.
Casemiro's Impact and Controversial Transfer
The 34-year-old Casemiro joined Inter Miami as a free agent after opting not to renew his contract with Manchester United. His transfer was not without controversy; the MLS launched an investigation for potential tampering since LA Galaxy held the discovery rights for the Brazilian star. However, an agreement was reached between the clubs, allowing the transfer to proceed.
During his first match, Casemiro controlled the midfield effectively and created an early scoring opportunity for his team. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul were absent once again, marking their second consecutive game missed following their World Cup duties.
With this victory, Inter Miami has now won six consecutive matches in the MLS, maintaining their second-place position in the Eastern Conference with 37 points, trailing leaders Nashville SC by two points after Nashville's 1-0 loss to Orlando City on the same day.
The team is set to face Columbus Crew in Matchday 19 before pursuing their second Leagues Cup title in August.
Key Insights on Casemiro's Debut and Inter Miami's Performance
What was the outcome of Casemiro's debut match for Inter Miami?
Casemiro's debut resulted in a 1-0 victory for Inter Miami against CF Montréal, though the match was marred by an injury to teammate Germán Berterame.
What happened to Germán Berterame during the match?
Germán Berterame was involved in a collision and appeared to be unconscious, leading to his removal via ambulance for medical attention.
How did Luis Suárez contribute to the match?
Luis Suárez scored the only goal of the match from a penalty, following the foul on Berterame, continuing his impressive scoring streak.