Inter Miami II needed a hero as they came into Matchday 22 on the brink of elimination from the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro playoffs.
And they found one in an Academy star. 17-year-old forward Miles Perkovich started on the left wing and delivered a brace that was essential in a campaign-saving 2-2 tie with Chicago Fire II. Perkovich represents the second Inter Miami II player to earn a Rising Star award in 2023.
Both of his goals came in the first half of the nervy match and protected his side from a valiant comeback effort from the hosts.
Striker Bryan Destin found Perkovic in stride in the 34th minute, and the youngster made no mistake while being surrounded by Fire II defenders.
His second was another example of being cool under pressure. Still with the adrenaline flowing from the opener, Perkovic found himself on the end of a ball that came from well behind the midfield line. He picked it up on the run and calmly put it past the Fire II keeper, making the game look easy.
Those goals were his second and third of the season, respectively in what's becoming a breakout season.
He and Inter Miami II have an uphill battle in the Eastern Conference playoff race, and it resumes on Saturday when they host Crown Legacy FC. CLFC is the first team to clinch a playoff ticket so far this season, and Perkovich and company will be hoping their hangover can last a week. You can catch that match and several others on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
