Inter Miami vs. CF Montreal: Expected lineups with Messi likely in the starting XI
Inter Miami is back at Chase Stadium with the urgent need to turn the grit shown in Philadelphia into results. After a dramatic 3-3 draw against the Eastern Conference leaders — a comeback that seemed to breathe life back into the team — the Herons face CF Montréal on Wednesday, May 28 (7 PM ET) in a match that could serve as the emotional close to this first stretch of the regular season. “The team showed pride, character, and a real desire to turn things around,” said Javier Mascherano ahead of the clash.
Despite the emotional lift from the last draw, Inter’s current form is far from ideal (just one win in their last eight games and 23 goals conceded). Defensive lapses and overall inconsistency continue to plague a squad still in search of its best version. “We’re in a situation where individual mistakes are costing us way too much,” admitted Mascherano.
Messi leads the charge
As always, Lionel Messi remains the team’s guiding light. Not only did the captain deliver a stunning free-kick goal in the draw against the Union, but he’s been consistently active, smiling, and committed during training and matches alike. Alongside longtime teammate Luis Suárez, Messi will look to crack a Montréal defense that sits last in the East and has scored just 10 goals in 15 matches.
Key absences for Inter
Mascherano will be missing several important players. Midfield anchor Yannick Bright is sidelined with injury, and David Ruiz is not expected back as he continues to train separately. Baltasar Rodríguez remains in recovery with no return date set. Goalkeeper Drake Callender recently underwent hernia surgery, prompting the arrival of William Yarbrough as cover. Given the circumstances, the coach is expected to stick closely to the squad that rescued the point in Philadelphia, with Weigandt battling for the right-back spot and Segovia likely to start after his last-minute equalizer.
Projected Inter Miami Starting XI:
Óscar Ustari; Marcelo Weigandt, Maxi Falcón, Noah Allen, Jordi Alba; Telasco Segovia, Sergio Busquets, Federico Redondo, Tadeo Allende; Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez.
CF Montréal’s struggles continue
On the other side, things are even more complicated for Montréal. Dead last in the Eastern Conference with only 10 goals scored and 25 conceded, Marco Donadel’s squad arrives in Miami desperate for points and a much-needed spark.
Projected CF Montréal Starting XI:
Sebastian Breza; Jalen Neal, Luca Petrasso; Nathan Saliba, Fernando Álvarez, Samuel Piette, Dante Sealy, Caden Clark, Tom Pearce, Giacomo Vrioni.