As Inter Miami readies for the Leagues Cup semifinals, they are set to face in-state rivals Orlando City SC on Wednesday. The key question remains: will Lionel Messi be on the field? He missed the thrilling quarterfinal clash against Tigres due to a muscle injury sustained earlier against the Los Angeles Galaxy in mid-August, after also having missed two matches, one of which was a significant loss to Orlando City.

How to Watch Inter Miami vs. Orlando City SC, Odds

• Date: Wednesday, Aug. 27
• Time: 6:30 p.m. ET
• Location: Chase Stadium – Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Live Stream: MLS Season Pass
• Odds: Inter Miami -120; Draw +300; Orlando City +260

With 20 goals and 10 assists under his belt across competitions this season, Messi is pushing for another Most Valuable Player accolade. Miami needs him to seize their second tournament title. His impact was pivotal during his arrival in 2023, as he led them to their first trophy.

Currently back in training, Messi’s status for the match is uncertain. Previously when Miami faced Orlando City, they fell 4-1 without him, struggling in four out of the five matches he missed. However, they emerged victorious in the two Leagues Cup fixtures he did not play.

In a twist, Javier Mascherano, who received a red card prior to half-time in the match against Tigres, will not be coaching from the sidelines. While he may still influence from the stands, the referees might not tolerate coaching instructions after prior incidents in recent matches.

With the addition of Rodrigo De Paul this summer, expectations are high for Miami to secure multiple trophies this season, especially against a fierce rival like Orlando City SC, known for producing memorable moments.