Inter Miami is set to face Orlando City SC in the eagerly awaited “Clasico del Sol” or Florida Derby in an MLS Eastern Conference clash at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, USA on Sunday (May 18).
Despite a promising start to the season, the Herons are currently experiencing a dip in form, having lost four of their last six games. To worsen matters, they were also eliminated from the CONCACAF Champions Cup at the semi-final stage by Vancouver Whitecaps. This Florida Derby presents an ideal opportunity for them to end their two-game winless run, and Miami coach Xavier Mascherano is expected to deploy a full-strength squad for this encounter.
Lionel Messi has played a key role in Miami’s attacking strategy during their MLS campaign, but after suffering a minor adductor strain during Argentina’s World Cup Qualifiers, concerns over his fitness lingered for several weeks. Nonetheless, the Argentine icon remains the Herons’ top scorer this season, having netted 10 goals across all competitions.
Inter Miami vs Orlando City: Will Lionel Messi Be in Action in Today’s MLS Match?
Messi enjoys an impressive record against Orlando City, having scored four goals in their last three meetings. Yet, he failed to score in their most recent matchup. Inter Miami’s last win over Orlando was a 5-0 triumph in March 2024. Tonight’s fixture offers both Messi and the team another chance to assert their superiority in this rivalry.
Still, given the congested fixture list and Messi’s continuous involvement in recent games, fans are questioning whether he will take the field in today’s derby. Mascherano, however, has consistently emphasised his tactical setup throughout the season. He has alternated between 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3 formations in all games to maintain squad consistency. Consequently, Messi has remained a vital component of the team’s output. With just four matches left before the FIFA 2025 Club World Cup, Mascherano is likely to field his strongest side today to regain momentum. Therefore, while Messi is expected to be named in the matchday squad, it remains uncertain whether he will start or come on as a substitute later in the game.
Inter Miami vs Orlando City: Will Luis Suarez Feature Today Against Orlando City?
Having missed two games due to a personal trip to Uruguay, striker Luis Suarez has reportedly resumed training with the squad. The Uruguayan striker also boasts a strong record versus Orlando. In the 5-0 win last year, Suarez netted twice, so he is anticipated to feature in today’s starting eleven.