After bouncing back with a win against the New York Red Bulls, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami are gearing up for a match against one of the top teams in the Western Conference, Minnesota United. Currently positioned second in the conference thanks to a robust defense, Minnesota will need to rise to the challenge posed by the Herons.
Following Luis Suarez’s end to a nine-match scoreless stretch in a stylish manner, Miami is optimistic about its offense as they aim to reclaim the top spot in the Eastern Conference. Having advanced past a disappointing phase in the Concacaf Champions Cup, they must adapt to a demanding schedule with games in rapid succession as the MLS season intensifies.
How to Watch Minnesota United vs. Inter Miami
- Date: Saturday, May 10
- Time: 4:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Allianz Field, Saint Paul, Minnesota
- Live Stream: MLS Season Pass
- Odds: Minnesota United +120; Draw +270; Inter Miami +200
Previous Meetings
The two teams have met just once before, back in 2022, prior to Messi’s arrival in Miami. Inter Miami secured a 2-1 victory with Indiana Vassilev scoring late in the match, marking an era when many current players were not part of either squad.
Key Bets
Tani Oluwaseyi is likely to make an impact in this game, having accumulated five goals and three assists this season. Despite a recent drought in scoring, he has consistently managed to take multiple shots on target in matches.
Coaches’ Insight
Javier Mascherano has voiced his concerns about the team’s readiness for upcoming competitions, particularly as they vie for the Club World Cup. He is exploring options to enhance the squad, especially in terms of attack. “We need to prioritize bringing on board players who can genuinely bolster our competitive stance. We’re assessing possibilities to strengthen our attacking capacity,” he noted.
Predicted Lineups
Minnesota United: Dayne St. Clair, Michael Boxall, Nicolas Romero, Jefferson Diaz, Anthony Markanich, Joaquin Pereyra, Will Trapp, Carlos Harvey, Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Tani Oluwaseyi, Robin Lod
Inter Miami: Oscar Ustari, Jordi Alba, Maximiliano Falcon, Noah Allen, Marcelo Weigandt, Fafa Picalut, Yannick Bright, Sergio Busquets, Tadeo Allende, Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez
Player to Watch
Noah Allen from Inter Miami has emerged as a key player defensively, but facing a potent attack from Minnesota will be a test. With Oluwaseyi’s speed presenting a potential threat, Miami’s defense must remain vigilant to avoid conceding goals. Despite only allowing 11 goals this season, they must be cautious against teams with top-level scoring threats.
Prediction
Inter Miami is anticipated to secure a win on the road, continuing their drive for points in the MLS. While Minnesota United has shown improvement this season, it might not suffice against Miami’s sustained offensive pressure. Pick: Minnesota United 1, Inter Miami 2
Stay Updated
Stay tuned to CBS Sports Golazo Network for comprehensive coverage of soccer, along with a rich collection of on-demand content including an array of shows and highlights.
