After suffering a heavy 3-0 loss to LAFC in their 2026 MLS season opener, Inter Miami travel to Puerto Rico to face Independiente del Valle in a friendly at the Juan Ramón Loubriel Stadium.
This fixture was originally scheduled for February 13 as part of Inter Miami’s ‘Champions’ Tour’ through South America, but a sudden muscle injury to Lionel Messi forced a postponement to ensure the Argentine superstar could participate.
Inter Miami arrive in Bayamon having completed an eventful South American tour that saw the Herons record a 3-0 loss to Alianza Lima in Peru, a 2-1 victory over Atlético Nacional in Colombia, and a 2-2 draw against Barcelona SC in Ecuador. Coupled with its recent regular-season setback in Los Angeles, Javier Mascherano’s side will be eager to regain its rhythm before returning to league play.
Conversely, Independiente del Valle enter the match on a high note, having secured a 2-0 victory over Guayaquil City in their Ecuadorian league debut. Facing a squad filled with global icons, the reigning LigaPro champions will look for a historic victory that would resonate throughout the club’s history.
Lionel Messi reacts during the MLS season opener vs LAFC. (Getty Images)
Independiente del Valle confirmed lineup
Uruguayan manager Joaquin Papa has his full squad available following their successful season start. The Rayados are expected to field a strong side as they look to test themselves against elite international competition.
Confirmed lineup to face Inter Miami: Guido Villar; Daykol Romero, Juan Viacava, Mateo Carabajal, Layan Loor; Jordy Alcivar; Matias Perello, Junior Sornoza, Patrik Mercado, Emerson Plata; Djorkaeff Reasco.
Inter Miami confirmed lineup
For Inter Miami, surprisingly Lionel Messi will be on the bench at the beginning of the game. Furthermore, Javier Mascherano will be without the services of Sergio Reguilon, who remains the only significant injury concern for the squad.
Confirmed lineup to face Independiente del Valle: Rocco Rios Novo; Facundo Mura, Ian Fray, Gonzalo Lujan, Cesar Abadia; David Ruiz, Yannick Bright, Alexander Shaw, Santiago Morales; Luis Suarez, Daniel Pinter.
