Inter Miami host the Chicago Fire in an MLS regular-season matchup, having already secured their spot in the playoffs. With that goal accomplished, questions remained about Lionel Messi’s availability, and now head coach Javier Mascherano has answered that doubt.
The Argentine captain, had started the last five matches and played every minute. Despite speculation, Messi has been confirmed to be in the starting lineup again today as Miami look to close the gap on the top of the table with another win.
Although Inter Miami have already clinched a postseason berth, they remain in contention for the Supporters’ Shield for the second year in a row. For that reason, Mascherano is likely to keep fielding his strongest squad as long as the team retains a mathematical chance of claiming the title.
The Herons currently sit third in the Eastern Conference with 56 points, while leaders Philadelphia Union hold 63 with two games left to play. Miami, meanwhile, still have four matches remaining in the regular season to try to make up ground.
Rodrigo De Paul and Lionel Messi during Inter Miami’s game against Toronto FC. (Michael Chisholm/Getty Images)
Confirmed lineup for Inter Miami
With the Supporters’ Shield as their main objective in the regular season, despite already securing a playoff spot, Javier Mascherano placed his strongest XI at Chase Stadium against the Chicago Fire.
Confirmed Inter Miami lineup: Ustari; Weigandt, Avilés, Luján, Alba; De Paul, Busquets, Bright, Segovia; Messi, Suarez.
Confirmed lineup for Chicago Fire
The visitors sit ninth in the standings with 48 points and three matches remaining. A win against Inter Miami would strengthen their chances of holding on to a play-in spot and fighting for a postseason berth in the final stretch.
Confirmed Chicago Fire lineup: Brady; Dean, Elliott, Waterman, Cutman; Franco, D’Avilla, Haile-Selassie; Kouamé, Cuypers, Bamba.
