Following their defeat to Los Angeles FC in the Concacaf Champions Cup, Inter Miami, led by Javier Mascherano, has an opportunity to recover as they host Toronto FC. The team needs to strategically manage player rotation for both the Champions Cup and this upcoming game. However, given their demonstrated squad depth this season, achieving victory should be within reach.
Tadeo Allende`s participation is uncertain due to an ongoing injury. Nevertheless, Mascherano has ample attacking options with Fafa Picault and Robert Taylor available on the wings. Miami`s loss to LAFC ended Lionel Messi`s streak of scoring or assisting in every game he played this season. Despite this, their previous wins without Messi suggest this setback is minor rather than a trend. Only a win against Toronto will confirm this assessment.
Match Details
- Date: Sunday, April 6
- Time: 7 p.m. ET
- Location: Chase Stadium — Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Live stream: MLS Season Pass
- Odds: Inter Miami -230; Draw +360; Toronto FC +600
Previous Encounter
Miami and Toronto last played almost a year ago, with Miami securing a tight 1-0 victory in May 2024. Both teams have changed significantly since then, including new coaches. Miami`s previous goal scorer, Leonardo Campana, has moved to the New England Revolution, meaning they`ll need a different source for late-game heroics this time.
Coach Perspectives
After the LAFC game, questions arose about Messi`s positioning, as he played a deeper role to receive the ball. This is the first challenge Miami has faced under their Argentine coach, and their response will indicate their season management strategy.
Mascherano stated his lack of concern, emphasizing Messi`s exceptional game understanding. He believes Messi adapts to the game`s needs, positioning himself to receive the ball and maximize impact.
Considering Miami`s season performance, there`s no reason to expect the LAFC loss to become a pattern. However, pressure is high on Mascherano. With a team capable of breaking MLS points records, every loss raises concerns about meeting expectations. This is the pressure he faces despite Miami`s strong overall performance.
Team Lineup Considerations
Rotation strategy is key. Miami`s focus is on the upcoming Concacaf Champions Cup match on Wednesday, but they must balance player freshness. While rest can be beneficial, athletes thrive on rhythm, and excessive rest might lead to rustiness before the Champions Cup game. As Mascherano gains more familiarity with his squad, he will refine his rotation strategy. Consistency, especially in defense, is crucial for player coordination and anticipation.
Projected Starting Lineups
Inter Miami: Oscar Ustari, Jordi Alba, Noah Allen, Maximiliano Falcon, Ian Fray, Sergio Busquets, Federico Redondo, Telasco Segovia, Robert Taylor, Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi
Toronto FC: Sean Johnson, Raoul Petretta, Nicksoen Gomis, Sigurd Rosted, Tyrese Spicer, Alonso Coello, Jonathan Osorio, Derrick Etienne, Lorenzo Insigne, Federico Bernardeschi, Ola Brynhildsen
Player Spotlight
Lorenzo Insigne, Toronto FC: Expected to have a Messi-like impact in MLS, Insigne almost left Toronto in the offseason. Under new management and with more attacking support, he has the potential to revitalize Toronto, a team formerly among MLS`s elite. To achieve this, he needs to perform in significant matches like this Inter Miami game. As one of the league`s highest-paid players, Insigne faces high expectations and needs to deliver results soon.
Key Match Storyline
Can Miami Recover? While not a must-win game, Miami will want to avoid consecutive losses before the Champions Cup. The upcoming home game against LAFC is crucial, making a recovery against Toronto important. A win, even without Messi carrying the team, would be ideal. Mascherano primarily seeks a positive team response.
Match Prediction
With their improved defense, Miami is expected to comfortably defeat Toronto at home. The game is likely to be lower-scoring than anticipated due to Toronto`s improved defense, though their attack isn`t yet strong enough to seriously challenge Miami. Toronto is progressing under Robin Fraser, but facing a top Eastern Conference team is a significant challenge, especially after finishing at the bottom last season. Prediction: Inter Miami 1, Toronto FC 0
Dominic Ashworth