Inter Miami Eyes Playoff Glory: Predicted XI Ready to Crush D.C. United and Secure MLS Cup Berth
Inter Miami return to action for their third match in eight days as they host the struggling D.C. United at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, beginning the final stretch before the MLS regular season concludes on October 18th.
Following a disappointing 3–0 defeat to Charlotte FC last weekend, the Herons responded impressively with a 3–1 victory over Seattle Sounders FC on Tuesday, positioning themselves to secure a playoff berth.
How Inter Miami Can Secure an MLS Cup Playoff Position
On the other hand, D.C. United have managed just 27 goals this campaign—the fewest in MLS—while allowing 53 goals, the most in the Eastern Conference. Additionally, they recently made changes to their sporting director position this week.
What formation might Inter Miami deploy as they seek to improve upon their previous 1–1 stalemate against D.C. United? Here's Sports Illustrated's forecast for how manager Javier Mascherano might set up his team.
Inter Miami Projected Starting XI vs. D.C. United (4-3-3)
GK: Oscar Ustari—The 38-year-old shot-stopper will aim to rediscover his top form before the 2025 MLS Cup playoffs begin.
RB: Marcelo Weigandt—While Ian Fray has performed well recently, Weigandt is expected to return at right-back given the busy fixture schedule.
CB: Maxi Falcón—Despite some early-season defensive issues, Falcón has emerged as one of Miami's most reliable performers.
CB: Tomas Aviles—The promising center-back received a red card versus Charlotte FC but completed his suspension during the midweek fixture, sitting out the Seattle Sounders FC victory.
LB: Noah Allen—Given the limited squad depth, Allen slots in at left-back while Jordi Alba pushes forward into a more advanced role.
DM: Sergio Busquets—The experienced midfielder has handled the heavy workload as his Inter Miami deal nears its conclusion.
RCM: Rodrigo De Paul—Though De Paul excels in central areas, his positioning on the right becomes necessary due to Miami's current squad limitations.
LCM: Yannick Bright—A former MLS SuperDraft selection, Bright has carved out an important position under Mascherano this campaign.
RW: Tadeo Allende—Allende featured as a forward during Luis Suárez's three-game ban, but has shown greater effectiveness operating from wide areas.
ST: Lionel Messi—With 20 strikes to his name, the 38-year-old Argentine sits just one goal behind Nashville SC's Sam Surridge in the MLS Golden Boot competition.
LW: Jordi Alba—The Spanish defender has primarily operated at left-back throughout his career, but is comfortable playing in wide attacking positions and excelled in the Seattle victory.
