Inter Miami are preparing for their second MLS match, set to face Houston Dynamo. Lionel Messi‘s team will be looking to extend their unbeaten run, as it has now gone 8 consecutive games without defeat. On the other hand, the Houston Dynamo are not in their best form. They have only managed to win one game in 2025. However, this could be the perfect opportunity to change the team’s dynamic, as Inter Miami will face some changes in their starting lineup.
Inter Miami will take the field against the Houston Dynamo without Lionel Messi:“…The recently shared player status report for the match did not include forward Lionel Messi, but it has been reported he did not make the trip to Houston. Unfortunately, we have no control over who plays for our opponent…To show our appreciation, fans who attend tomorrow night’s match can claim a complimentary ticket to a future Dynamo match this season,” stated Houston Dynamo on Instagram.
Despite their recent struggles, the Dynamo have history on their side. They have won all three of their previous meetings against Inter Miami. This match presents a prime chance to secure another victory for their historical records.
A Houston Dynamo win could also provide a much-needed confidence boost as they look to turn their season around. With Miami missing key players, the Dynamo must capitalize on this opportunity to regain momentum.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami reacts in the first half against the Orlando City during a preseason game at Raymond James Stadium on February 14, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.
Why is Lionel Messi missing Inter Miami’s match against Houston Dynamo?
Lionel Messi has played in all eight of Inter Miami’s matches in 2025, including one just six days ago. Given his recent workload, DIRECTV Sports reported that Javier Mascherano has decided to give Messi some rest to manage his physical condition. However, Messi could return to action against Cavalier FC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup on March 6 at Chase Stadium.
His absence against the Houston Dynamo could disrupt Inter Miami’s offensive flow, creating an opportunity for their opponent to capitalize. Without Messi, Mascherano could rely on other playmakers like Robert Taylor or Benjamin Cremaschi.
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Lionel Messi candidly reveals Inter Miami’s ambitious goals for the season
Since joining Inter Miami, Lionel Messi has already been sidelined to rest. During the 2023/24 season, he missed two games for this reason. This season, that number could increase.
The goal is to manage Messi’s workload and maintain his physical balance. At 37 years old, limiting his playing time could help maximize his performance. This approach may also extend his career by reducing the risk of injuries.
How many days has Lionel Messi missed since joining Inter Miami?
Throughout his career, Lionel Messi has rarely dealt with frequent injuries. However, since joining MLS, he has experienced some muscular issues. According to Transfermarkt, Messi has missed 50 days due to muscle problems, 5 days with a leg injury, and 59 days recovering from a hamstring issue.
All of these setbacks have occurred since his arrival at Inter Miami in 2023. Considering that Lionel Messi is a starter in most games, this number is not that high.
Probable lineups
Following the absence of Lionel Messi, Javier Mascherano could make some changes to the starting eleven to face Houston Dynamo: Oscar Ustari; Ian Fray, Noah Allen, Maximiliano Falcon, Jordi Alba; Tadeo Allende, Federico Redondo, Sergio Busquets, Telasco Segovia; Robert Taylor, Luis Suarez.
On the other hand, the Houston Dynamo could repeat the same starting eleven as in the previous game: Andrew Tarbell; Griffin Dorsey, Ethan Bartlow, Femi Awodesu, Daniel Steres; Sebastian Kowalczyk, Jose Artur, Jack McGlynn, Aliyu Ibrahim; Ezequiel Ponce, Amine Bassi.
