Sophia
Inter Miami returns to Major League Soccer action this Saturday, welcoming a red-hot Charlotte FC to Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. While the Herons sit sixth in the Eastern Conference, their impressive points-per-game ratio places them third overall, keeping their Supporters’ Shield aspirations very much alive. However, they face a formidable challenge in Charlotte FC, a side currently on an MLS-record-chasing eight-game winning streak—the second-longest in MLS history outside of the shootout era.
This pivotal match arrives after the international break, and Inter Miami will be without key players. Star striker Luis Suárez is suspended for the first of three MLS matches following the Leagues Cup final fallout, and versatile midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi has been transferred to Parma. These absences will force head coach Javier Mascherano to make strategic adjustments to his starting XI.
The Herons’ Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
With Suárez sidelined and Cremaschi departed, here’s how Inter Miami could line up against Charlotte FC:
Goalkeeper: Oscar Ustari
The 38-year-old veteran has been a consistent presence between the posts. His experience will be crucial in containing Charlotte’s formidable attack, spearheaded by talents like Wilfried Zaha and Idan Toklomati.
Defenders: Weigandt, Luján, Falcon, Alba
- Right-Back: Marcelo Weigandt—Weigandt has cemented his place as the regular right-back when the team is at full strength, offering both defensive solidity and attacking impetus.
- Center-Back: Gonzalo Luján—The 24-year-old has accumulated 20 MLS regular-season appearances for Miami, bringing youthful energy to the backline.
- Center-Back: Maxi Falcon—The Uruguayan center-back maintains his spot, forming a key partnership with Luján.
- Left-Back: Jordi Alba—The legendary FC Barcelona full-back continues to be a vital component of Miami’s defense and attack, having signed a contract through the 2026 season.
Midfielders: Busquets, De Paul, Rodriguez
- Defensive Midfield: Sergio Busquets—With his contract not extending beyond 2026, the iconic midfielder could be entering the final weeks of his illustrious career. His playmaking and defensive intelligence remain indispensable.
- Defensive Midfield: Rodrigo De Paul—Fresh off World Cup qualifiers with Argentina, Miami’s newest superstar will be eager to drive the Herons towards MLS Cup glory and the Supporters’ Shield.
- Right Wing: Baltasar Rodriguez—At just 22, Rodriguez is one of Miami’s youngest talents, and his responsibilities have steadily increased throughout the summer.
Attacking Midfield & Forwards: Messi, Segovia, Allende
- Attacking Midfield: Lionel Messi—After what was likely his final competitive match for Argentina during the international break, Messi will now focus on chasing the MLS Golden Boot to cap off a remarkable season with Miami.
- Left Wing: Telasco Segovia—Returning from international duty with Venezuela, Segovia will look to build on his impressive tally of 10 goals and three assists for the Herons this season.
- Striker: Tadeo Allende—Traditionally a winger, Allende is expected to lead the line due to Suárez’s suspension and an injury to Fafa Picault, offering a different dimension to Miami’s attack.
A Battle for History and Playoff Position
This match holds significant implications for both clubs. For Charlotte FC, a win would extend their historic winning streak to nine games, further cementing their place in MLS lore. For Inter Miami, it’s an opportunity to derail Charlotte’s momentum, solidify their own playoff position, and keep pace in the Supporters’ Shield race.
The absence of Suárez and Cremaschi will undoubtedly test Miami’s depth, but the presence of global superstars like Messi, Busquets, and Alba, combined with the exciting talent of newcomers like De Paul, ensures the Herons remain a formidable opponent. Fans can expect a thrilling contest as Inter Miami looks to protect their home turf and ruin Charlotte’s bid for history.
