Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale is set to host a top-of-the-table clash in the MLS Eastern Conference between Inter Miami and the Philadelphia Union. While Inter Miami was expected to be a strong contender, the Philadelphia Union`s impressive early season performance has been a pleasant surprise.
The big question for Miami is whether Lionel Messi will be fit to play. He sustained a hamstring strain against Atlanta United and missed Argentina`s international matches as a result. However, the time off might be sufficient for him to recover in time for the Union game.
Inter Miami has been managing Messi`s playing time carefully this season. He has played in only five of Miami`s eight games across all competitions. Despite limited appearances, Messi has been impactful, contributing either a goal or an assist in every match he has played. The strong performances of players like Telasco Segovia and Tadeo Allende have given coach Javier Mascherano tactical flexibility.
Miami remains undefeated this season, but the Union pose a significant challenge. They are currently at the top of the Eastern Conference, tied with Vancouver Whitecaps for the most points in MLS.
Match Storylines
- Key Matchup: Eastern Conference leaders Inter Miami face a tough test against the high-flying Philadelphia Union.
- Messi`s Availability: Will Lionel Messi recover from his hamstring injury to feature in this crucial game?
- Top Teams Clash: A battle between two of the strongest teams in MLS early in the season.
Match Details
- Date: Saturday, March 29
- Location: Chase Stadium, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Live stream: MLS Season Pass
Previous Meeting
Inter Miami has had the upper hand in recent encounters with Philadelphia, winning four of their last five matches. Their most recent game was in September 2024, where Miami led 2-1 at halftime thanks to two goals from Messi, before Luis Suarez added another goal to secure the win. Both teams have undergone significant changes since then, including coaching changes, but historical precedent suggests a potentially high-scoring game.
Coach`s Perspective
Ahead of the game, Coach Mascherano hinted at Messi`s potential return to the squad against the Union, which would be a major boost for Miami`s attack. Mascherano stated that Messi is progressing well in his recovery and is likely to be included in the matchday roster, emphasizing that while Messi`s involvement needs to be carefully managed to avoid risks, the player himself is attuned to his body`s condition and has been increasing his training progressively.
Mascherano clarified that Messi`s starting position isn`t guaranteed, but his potential inclusion is a positive sign for the team, who are keen to have their star player back on the field as soon as possible.
What`s at Stake
Despite it being early in the season, this match has significant implications for the top of the Eastern Conference standings. Inter Miami aims to surpass the MLS regular season points record of 74, and a victory against the Union would be a step in that direction. For Philadelphia, after missing the playoffs last season, this game is an opportunity to solidify their status as serious contenders. Defeating a Miami team that is expected to compete for the MLS Cup would be a statement win for the Union.
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: Since joining Inter Miami from Celta Vigo, Allende has quickly become a key attacking player, especially in Messi`s absence. With four goals in all competitions, he is proving to be a significant threat. His ability to perform against the Union`s strong defense will be a key indicator of his continued impact this season.
Key Storyline
Lionel Messi`s Potential Appearance: While indications suggest Messi might be in the squad, his actual participation remains uncertain. Depending on the game`s progression, he might not feature, especially if Miami establishes a comfortable lead early on, similar to their game against Houston. However, the Union are a much tougher opponent than Houston Dynamo and are likely to make this a challenging match, 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 due to both teams` strengths. The Union`s potent attack and pressing style contrast with Miami`s versatile approach, capable of both direct play and intricate passing. This sets the stage for a potentially thrilling game with various possible outcomes, ranging from a goalless draw to a high-scoring affair. Ultimately, a draw seems like a plausible result at Chase Stadium. Prediction: Inter Miami 2, Philadelphia Union 2
Dominic Ashworth