Alexi Lalas jumps to the defence of MLS after Lionel Messi's Inter Miami are obliterated by Cristiano Ronaldo-less Al-Nassr as he outlines USA's main advantage

The Herons shipped six goals in an embarrassing friendly defeat to Al-Nassr, despite the Portuguese forward playing no part in the proceedings due to an injury. It was their second defeat to a Saudi Pro League side following a 4-3 loss to Al-Hilal.

As Inter Miami's defence got exposed time and again by Anderson Talisca and Co. questions were raised about the level of football in the USA's top-flight. However, Lalas was quick to silence the critics and pointed out a massive advantage that the USA enjoys over their Middle Eastern rival.

A user on X asked: "How does parading one of MLS underperforming teams portray MLS in general abroad?"

Lalas quoted his post and wrote: "If you want to use a mediocre Miami team, in a preseason performance in Saudi Arabia, as a proxy for MLS, then it's a poor portrayal that hurts perception. Or, you can have perspective, shrug, and recognize the advantage MLS has in playing in a country so many want to go to [USA]."

Since Messi arrived in Inter Miami, MLS has become one of the preferred destinations for footballers. The Florida-based squad has been able to get on board several superstars like Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba on their books and the recent acquisition of Luis Suarez is another feather to their cap.

Inter Miami are currently in Asia to play two friendlies as part of their jet-setting pre-season tour. They will next play against a Hong Kong XI on Sunday before flying to Japan to take on Vissel Kobe, which is their last non-competitive fixture before heading back to the USA. The 2024 MLS season will kick off on February 21 with the Herons set to start their campaign with a clash against Real Salt Lake.