Berterame Hunts for Breakthrough Goal as Inter Miami Clash with D.C. United—Team News and Starting XI Revealed
Coming off their inaugural victory of the 2026 MLS regular season, Inter Miami aims to build momentum on Saturday when they face D.C. United before an anticipated crowd exceeding 70,000 spectators in Baltimore.
The reigning MLS Cup titleholders found their rhythm last week with a dramatic 4–2 comeback victory against state rivals Orlando City after trailing 2–0 at halftime. This triumph elevated the Herons to three points from two fixtures following their season-opening 3–0 loss to LAFC.
Following their Thursday visit to President Donald Trump at the White House, Miami enters Saturday's encounter as strong favorites. Focus will center on their offensive unit, particularly high-profile acquisition Germán Berterame, who remains without a goal for the Herons.
Berterame Seeking a Bounce
Berterame Seeking a Bounce
Inter Miami made bold moves to strengthen their offensive arsenal for 2026, with Berterame's arrival from Liga MX powerhouse CF Monterrey serving as the centerpiece. However, he has found it difficult to position himself in prime scoring opportunities during the opening two matches, managing only one shot on target across 180 minutes of play.
Despite his individual challenges, Miami have discovered their rhythm through Lionel Messi, MLS Cup playoff standout Tadeo Allende, and Argentine prospect Mateo Silvetti, who netted the team's season opener to ignite the rally against Orlando City.
This week may mark the first occasion Miami fields a completely healthy squad, with fullback Sergio Reguilón having rejoined training sessions and David Ayala returning to the roster.
Inter Miami Predicted Lineup vs. D.C. United (4-2-3-1)
Inter Miami Predicted Lineup vs. D.C. United (4-2-3-1)
GK: Dayne St. Clair—The Canadian goalkeeper endured a difficult season opener, but his second-half performance against Orlando and crucial saves against Marco Pašalić and Martín Ojeda may have provided the confidence boost he needed to regain his rhythm.
RB: Ian Fray—The Jamaican defender faces competition from Facundo Mura for the right-back position, yet appears to retain Javier Mascherano's confidence in these early season matches.
CB: Maxi Falcón—Serving as the cornerstone and veteran leader of Miami's defensive line, Falcón will likely bear responsibility for clearing dangerous balls away from D.C. forward Tai Baribo, who excels at converting half-chances within the penalty area.
CB: Micael—The Brazilian center-back experienced some difficulties against LAFC and Orlando, but has begun adapting his approach to complement St. Clair's dynamic goalkeeping style. While improvement remains necessary, positive development is evident.
LB: Noah Allen—Despite being only 21 years old with over 70 MLS appearances to his name, Allen's early season performances have been a concerning weakness. The Greek youth international must elevate his play to secure consistent minutes once Reguilón reaches full fitness.
DM: Rodrigo De Paul—The Argentine midfielder has embraced a significant role transformation this season, securing his position as a defensive midfielder rather than being deployed wide to address tactical gaps.
DM: Yannick Bright—The Herons rewarded Bright with a contract extension in October, and the 24-year-old has already justified their investment, demonstrating his value as an assertive ball-carrying midfielder who pairs perfectly with De Paul.
RW: Tadeo Allende—In his season debut against Orlando, Allende displayed his capacity to beat defenders and create scoring opportunities. After recording an assist last week, supporters can anticipate consistent contributions from him. Bench appearances will be rare for this talent.
AM: Lionel Messi—The eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient scored twice in the season's second match and delivered several match-defining moments with his trademark brilliance. Even at 38, Messi continues to dominate crucial contests and has seamlessly transitioned into a more conventional creative role supporting Berterame.
LW: Mateo Silvetti—Savor Silvetti's time in MLS and with Inter Miami while possible. With three goals and three assists across 589 minutes spanning regular season and playoffs, he's proving to be an exceptionally influential young talent.
ST: Germán Berterame—The Mexican striker joined Inter Miami to find the net and help reduce the team's dependence on Messi. While confidence in Berterame reaching that level remains strong, a matchup against D.C. United's vulnerable defense could provide the perfect platform to ignite his scoring form.