Inter Miami vs D.C. United Lineups: Messi Leads Predicted XI as Both Teams Battle Different Goals
The Inter Miami vs D.C. United lineups are generating plenty of buzz ahead of their MLS clash, with Lionel Messi set to start as captain and both teams dealing with injuries and suspensions. Miami remains in the hunt for the Supporters’ Shield, while D.C. United looks to salvage pride despite being out of playoff contention.
Inter Miami Predicted Lineup and Team News
Inter Miami faces the match without several key names, including Luis Suárez, David Ruiz, and Fafá Picault, all ruled out through suspension or injury. Promising youngster Allen Obando has also been training separately, leaving his availability in doubt.
Despite these setbacks, Gerardo Martino’s side still boasts a strong starting XI, led by Messi in attack and Sergio Busquets in midfield. The defense also receives a boost with the potential return of Tomás Avilés.
Predicted Inter Miami Starting XI (4-3-3):
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Óscar Ustari |
| Right Back | Marcelo Weigandt |
| Center Back | Maximiliano Falcón |
| Center Back | Tomás Avilés |
| Left Back | Noah Allen |
| Midfield (Defensive) | Rodrigo De Paul |
| Midfield | Sergio Busquets |
| Midfield | Yannick Bright |
| Forward (Right Wing) | Tadeo Allende |
| Forward (Center) | Lionel Messi (Captain) |
| Forward (Left Wing) | Jordi Alba |
This lineup highlights Miami’s mix of experienced leaders and young talents, with Messi expected to spearhead the attack as they continue their push for silverware.
D.C. United Predicted Lineup and Key Absences
D.C. United enter this fixture with a long list of unavailable players. Lukas MacNaughton is suspended, while Kristian Fletcher and Randall Leal are sidelined through injury. Despite these problems, Wayne Rooney’s squad still retains attacking power through Christian Benteke.
Predicted D.C. United Starting XI (4-3-3):
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Luis Barraza |
| Right Back | Conner Antley |
| Center Back | Lucas Bartlett |
| Center Back | Kye Rowles |
| Left Back | David Schnegg |
| Midfield | Jackson Hopkins |
| Midfield | Brandon Servania |
| Midfield | Matti Peltola |
| Forward (Right Wing) | João Peglow |
| Forward (Center) | Christian Benteke |
| Forward (Left Wing) | Gabriel Pirani |
With Benteke leading the line and Peglow adding creativity on the right, United will look to test Miami’s defense despite their depleted roster.
Tactical Analysis and Match Outlook
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Inter Miami’s Strengths: The team relies on Messi’s leadership and creativity, combined with Busquets’ midfield control. The addition of Rodrigo De Paul offers defensive balance.
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D.C. United’s Challenge: With multiple absences, United will need Benteke’s physical presence and Pirani’s pace to unsettle Miami’s backline.
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Key Factor: Miami’s squad depth and superior quality could be decisive, especially against a weakened D.C. United team.
What This Match Means
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For Inter Miami: Every point matters in their pursuit of the Supporters’ Shield, making this home game crucial.
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For D.C. United: Already eliminated from playoff contention, the team is playing for pride and the chance to disrupt Miami’s title ambitions.
The Inter Miami vs D.C. United lineups reflect two sides on very different paths this MLS season. With Lionel Messi ready to start and lead the charge, Miami are firm favorites, but D.C. United could still cause problems through Benteke and their remaining attacking options. Fans can expect a clash of ambition versus resilience when these two teams face off.
