Chicago Fire will host Inter Miami in a pivotal Eastern Conference clash as both teams aim to strengthen their position in the MLS standings. With Lionel Messi set to travel to Chicago for the first time, the Florida side will look to extend their unbeaten streak in league play.
Currently sitting ninth in the Eastern Conference, Chicago Fire are pushing to gain momentum and break into the MLS playoff zone. After back-to-back setbacks—a 1-1 draw with CF Montreal and a 2-1 loss to the New York Red Bulls—the hosts will hope to rebound at Soldier Field.
Inter Miami, meanwhile, are riding a wave of confidence following a dramatic 3-1 comeback win over LAFC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup midweek. However, the physical toll of that match could affect player availability and fitness ahead of Saturday’s contest.
Javier Mascherano‘s squad has enjoyed a strong MLS campaign, going undefeated with four wins and two draws. Despite having played fewer games than most, Inter Miami currently sit seventh in the overall table and remain in striking distance of the top spot in the East.
Mascherano on stars’ availability
A key question for Inter Miami is whether stars like Messi, Luis Suarez, and Jordi Alba will be fit to play after logging heavy minutes midweek. Head coach Javier Mascherano addressed their status in his pre-match press conference:
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“If they are feeling fine, they will play,” the Argentine manager said. “By feeling fine, I mean 100 percent physically and mentally. If any of them are not, they will rest, but our idea is to put the best out there.”
Projected lineups Chicago Fire vs. Inter Miami
Chicago Fire projected lineup (4-3-3): Chris Brady; Justin Reynolds, Carlos Teran, Omar Gonzalez, Andrew Gutman; Maren Haile-Selassie, Kellyn Acosta, Sergio Oregel; Tom Barlow, Hugo Cuypers, Jonathan Bamba.
Coach: Greg Berhalter.
Inter Miami projected lineup (4-4-2): Drake Callender; Ian Fray, Tomas Aviles, Gonzalo Lujan, Jorid Alba; Fafa Picault, Benjamin Cremaschi, Sergio Busquets, Telasco Segovia; Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez.
Coach: Javier Mascherano.
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