Inter Miami suffered a setback with a heavy loss to the Seattle Sounders in the 2025 Leagues Cup. Looking to bounce back, the Herons will take on Charlotte today in an important MLS match, aiming to improve their standings. There is particular interest in whether Lionel Messi will play, especially after he missed Argentina’s recent World Cup qualifier against Ecuador, raising questions.
Lionel Messi’s absence from the last game for Argentina was a mutual decision with the head coach and not due to any injury. In a recent press conference, Javier Mascherano stated, “Leo is doing well. He trained with us all week and he’ll be available for the game against Charlotte.” As a result, it is likely he will start in today’s match, as Inter Miami seeks a win to secure fifth place in the Eastern Conference.
Javier Mascherano, the head coach of Inter Miami, has developed a strong team that remains competitive in the conference despite recent challenges. Even after a setback in the Leagues Cup, the team is among the top seven with 46 points, despite having played fewer games than some teams. This strategic position provides the Herons a good chance to qualify for the playoffs, alongside the already qualified Philadelphia Union.
Facing Charlotte is a tough challenge, but the Herons are on a three-game unbeaten streak against them since their last loss in October 2023. However, Dean Smith’s team has started the MLS season strongly, featuring key players like Wilfried Zaha, Brandt Bronico, and Idan Toklomaty, who pose a real threat to Inter Miami’s victory ambitions.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF looks on during the Leagues Cup Final against Seattle Sounders.
Inter Miami predicted lineup vs Charlotte
Inter Miami approaches the match against Charlotte with high hopes for a win. However, head coach Javier Mascherano will be without Luis Suarez, who is serving an MLS suspension due to an incident during the Leagues Cup. The Herons will also miss Baltasar Rodriguez, David Ruiz, Allen Obando, and Fafa Picault, all sidelined due to injuries.
Given these circumstances, Inter Miami is expected to line up as follows: Oscar Ustari; Marcelo Weigandt, Gonzalo Lujan, Maximiliano Falcon, Jordi Alba; Sergio Busquets, Rodrigo De Paul, Yannick Bright; Tadeo Allende, Lionel Messi, Telasco Segovia.
Charlotte predicted lineup vs Inter Miami
Similarly, Charlotte FC will also be without key players Archie Goodwin and Harry Toffolo, leading head coach Dean Smith to adjust the lineup. Nevertheless, fans can expect a familiar strategy that has resulted in five straight wins. Wilfried Zaha and Brandt Bronico are likely to take the lead in the offensive efforts.
Charlotte is expected to line up as follows: Kristijan Kahlina; Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty, Adilson Malanda, Tim Ream, Nathan Byrne; Ashley Westwood, Djibril Diani; Kerwin Vargas, Brandt Bronico, Wilfried Zaha; Idan Toklomaty.