Chase Stadium is gearing up to host a thrilling Eastern Conference showdown in MLS as Inter Miami welcomes the Philadelphia Union on Saturday night. While Inter Miami was tipped to be a strong contender, the Union`s impressive early season performance has made them equally formidable.
The big question mark for Miami is the availability of Lionel Messi. He sustained a hamstring strain against Atlanta United and subsequently missed Argentina`s international games. However, the rest period might be enough for him to feature against the Union.
Inter Miami has been managing Messi`s playing time carefully this season, with the Argentine star appearing in only five out of eight matches across all competitions. Despite limited appearances, he has been highly influential, contributing a goal or assist in every game he has played. The emergence of players like Telasco Segovia and Tadeo Allende has provided coach Javier Mascherano with tactical flexibility.
Miami remains undefeated this season, but the Union pose a significant threat. They are currently at the top of the table, level on points with the Vancouver Whitecaps for the league`s best record.
Match Details and How to Watch
- Date: Saturday, March 29
- Location: Chase Stadium, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Live stream: MLS Season Pass
- Odds: Inter Miami -155; Draw +340; Philadelphia Union +340
Previous Encounter
Inter Miami has historically dominated matches against the Union, winning four of their last five encounters. The Union has only managed one victory in that span. Their most recent game in September 2024 saw Inter Miami take a 2-1 halftime lead, fueled by two goals from Messi, before Luis Suarez added another to secure the win. Both teams have undergone significant changes since then, including coaching changes, but past results suggest a potentially high-scoring match.
Coach Insights
Ahead of the game, Coach Mascherano hinted at Messi`s potential return to face the Union, which would be a major boost for their attack. Due to the international break timing, Messi hasn`t missed any club games due to his recent injury. Mascherano stated that if Messi is to return, it should be for games like this one against a strong opponent.
“Leo is in good shape, and barring any unforeseen issues, he should be in the squad for the game,” Mascherano commented. “We`ve been gradually increasing his training load. Leo is a unique player who sometimes needs to be held back to prevent risks, but he is also very aware of his body. He`s been progressively training more.”
Mascherano clarified that Messi`s involvement might not be a start, but his potential presence is encouraging for the team, who are keen to have their key player back as soon as safely possible.
What`s at Stake
Despite it being early in the season, top spot in the Eastern Conference is on the line. Inter Miami aims to surpass the MLS regular season points record of 74. To achieve this, they need to overcome challenges like the Union. For Philadelphia, after missing last season`s playoffs, they are aiming to solidify their contender status. A victory against a favored Miami team would send a strong message about their ambitions this season.
Projected Lineups
Inter Miami: Oscar Ustari, Jordi Alba, Noah Allen, Maximiliano Falcon, Gonzalo Lujan, Telasco Segovia, Benjamin Cremaschi, Sergio Busquets, Yannick Bright, Tadeo Allende, Luis Suarez
Philadelphia Union: Andre Blake, Kai Wagner, Olwethu Makhanya, Jakob Glesnes, Nathan Harriel, Jovan Lukic, Danley Jean Jacques, Quinn Sullivan, Daniel Gazdag, Tai Baribo, Mikael Uhre
Player Spotlight
Tadeo Allende, Inter Miami: Allende has quickly adapted since joining Inter Miami from Celta Vigo. When Messi is absent, he becomes a primary attacking threat. With four goals already, he`s proving his scoring ability. Facing the Union`s strong defense will be a significant test and a chance for Allende to further establish himself as a key addition to the team.
Key Match Storyline
Will Lionel Messi play? While indications suggest Messi might be in the squad, his actual game time remains uncertain. Depending on the match`s progression, he might not feature, especially if Miami establishes a comfortable lead early on, similar to their game in Houston. However, the Union are a tougher opponent than Houston Dynamo and are likely to push Miami harder, potentially necessitating Messi`s involvement. If Messi plays, his streak of goal contributions will be on the line.
Match Prediction
Predicting the outcome of this match is challenging, given both teams` current form. The Union`s potent attack and pressing style are causing problems for opponents. Miami`s versatility in attack, capable of both direct play and intricate passing, promises an exciting contest. While various scorelines are possible, a draw seems a likely outcome at Chase Stadium. Prediction: Inter Miami 2, Philadelphia Union 2
