Inter Miami is gearing up for the Leagues Cup semifinals, where they will face their state rivals, Orlando City SC, on Wednesday. The main question on everyone`s mind is whether Lionel Messi will be fit to play. Messi sat out the team`s exciting quarterfinal win against Tigres after a muscle injury flared up during a 45-minute appearance against the Los Angeles Galaxy in mid-August. This injury came after he had already missed two previous games, one of which was a significant loss to Orlando City.
Match Details: Inter Miami vs. Orlando City SC
- Date: Wednesday, August 27
- Time: 6:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Chase Stadium — Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Live Stream: MLS Season Pass
- Odds: Inter Miami -120; Draw +300; Orlando City +260
Amassing 20 goals and 10 assists across all competitions, Messi is a strong contender for another Most Valuable Player award in the league. However, his presence is crucial for the Herons to secure their second tournament victory. Messi`s arrival in 2023 was the catalyst for the club`s inaugural trophy, and he is on the verge of repeating that success.
Messi has rejoined Miami in training, and while he is expected to participate in the match, it remains uncertain if he will start or come on as a substitute. The last time Miami faced Orlando City SC without Messi, they suffered a 4-1 defeat. In fact, Inter Miami has only won one out of five MLS matches played without their star player. Interestingly, in the Leagues Cup, the Herons managed to win both games in which Messi did not feature.
In a significant development for the semifinal, the head coach will be unavailable to lead from the sidelines, having received a red card before halftime during the match against Tigres. While there`s a possibility of him attempting to direct play from the stands or communicate with his assistant via phone, this tactic was observed in the previous game, and referees may be vigilant to prevent it from the outset this time.
Following the summer acquisition of Rodrigo De Paul, Inter Miami is under immense pressure to secure multiple trophies this season. With a roster boasting numerous players experienced in high-stakes global football, anything less than a victory against Orlando City SC would diminish the season`s perceived success. The absence of the regular head coach from the sidelines, usually a calming presence, could be critical if Orlando City manages to score early. This rivalry match has a history of iconic moments, and Wednesday`s encounter promises to add another chapter to that legacy.
