As Inter Miami continue their pursuit of the MLS Supporters’ Shield, they may be in store for quite a boost during the home stretch. Lionel Messi is fit to be included in the squad for the first time since injuring his ankle in the Copa America final this summer. Absent for four matches due to that injury, the Herons have had time to learn how to play without Messi but his return will still be welcome. On a run of four consecutive wins being able to add a player who has 12 goals and nine assists back into the XI could just be what is needed to keep the streak going.
Here are our storylines, how you can watch the match and more:
How to watch and odds
- Date: Saturday, Sep. 14 | Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Chase Stadium — Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Live stream: MLS Season Pass
- Odds: Inter Miami +230; Draw +380; Philadephia Union +550
Storylines
Inter Miami: Without Messi, it has been Luis Saurez pacing Miami. With 16 goals and five assists so far this season, Suarez has not only played himself into the MLS Golden Boot conversation but he’s in the thick of the MVP discussion as well. Yannick Bright has also stepped up in midfield. A product of the MLS SuperDraft, Bright is one of the keys to the Herons midfield highlights the varied paths to professional soccer in America.
Philadelphia Union: Star goalkeeper Andre Blake has been ruled out of the match and it feels like the Union’s streak of making the playoffs in six consecutive seasons is at risk. Currently two points off of a playoff spot, the Union can make up ground but they’ll have to go through the top of the Eastern Conference to do it. There is a point when it feels like the lift may be too much for Jim Curtin’s men and a lopsided loss to Miami could be that point.
Prediction
With two teams heading in different directions entering the match, it’s hard to see anything happening except Miami hanging a crooked number on the scoreboard. Pick: Inter Miami 4, Philadelphia Union 0
KVSP