Inter Miami have secured their place in the MLS playoffs, surprising everyone with their impressive offensive pace. However, they have continued to struggle defensively, which has prevented them from securing victories in their last two games. Following this, the Herons are looking to return to winning ways against the New England Revolution. For this reason, fans are keeping a close eye on Lionel Messiās status ahead of the game.
According to Jose Armando Rodriguez, Inter Miami completed their final training session with the entire squad, indicating that Lionel Messi is physically ready to lead the offense. With this in mind, head coach Javier Mascherano will field the Argentine star, hoping he will guide the team to an important victory and break their negative streak.
Despite not requiring a victory to advance to the seasonās second phase, the Herons must avoid a slump to maintain momentum heading into the playoffs. A series of subpar performances could jeopardize their MLS Cup aspirations. To counter this, head coach Javier Mascherano will reintroduce Rodrigo De Paul into the midfield alongside Sergio Busquets to bolster the teamās defensive stability and ensure they enter the postseason in top form.
Inter Miami eagerly welcome back Luis Suarez to the front line, his recent striking performance highlighted by an impressive brace. With his return, the Heronsā offense looks poised to dominate, especially as Lionel Messi tirelessly pursues his quest for a first MLS Golden Boot. Given their current form, the matchup against the New England Revolution promises to be an electrifying contest.
Lionel Messi of Inter Miami
Inter Miami lineup vs New England Revolution
Unlike previous matches, Inter Miami enter the game against New England Revolution with a full squad, with only Mateo Silvetti absent as he plays in the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup with Argentina. Despite this, head coach Javier Mascherano will make changes to his lineup, seeking improvement over previous games. However, Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi promise to once again lead the teamās offense.
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With this in mind, the Herons will lineup as follows: Rocco Rios Novo; Ian Fray, Maximiliano Falcon, Noah Allen, Jordi Alba; Baltasar Rodriguez, Sergio Busquets, Rodrigo De Paul, Tadeo Allende; Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez.
New England Revolution lineup vs Inter Miami
New England Revolution come into the game against Inter Miami with three players missing: Peyton Miller (suspended due to accumulated yellow cards), Ilay Feingold (ankle injury), and Ignatius Ganago (calf injury). Despite this, they are coming off an important victory against Atlanta United with Leonardo Campana regaining his scoring touch. For this reason, head coach Caleb Porter will opt for continuity in his lineup.
Considering this, NE Revolution will play as follows: Matt Turner; Brandon Bye, Brayan Ceballos, Mamadou Fofana, Tanner Beason, William Sands; Carles Gil, Allan Oyirwoth, Matt Polster; Dor Turgeman, Leonardo Campana.
