Inter Miami Faces Chicago Fire as Herons Battle Through Grueling Schedule

Inter Miami face another crucial fixture in their packed conclusion to the 2025 MLS regular season on Tuesday, welcoming Chicago Fire FC to Chase Stadium as they seek to bounce back from their 1–1 stalemate away to Toronto FC over the weekend.

Though Philadelphia Union hold their fate in their own hands regarding the Supporters' Shield competition, a victory against Chicago could maintain Miami's slim mathematical chances. Conversely, a defeat would virtually eliminate any possibility of overtaking their Eastern Conference rivals.

For Chicago Fire, securing three points would guarantee their place in the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs.

Here's how manager Javier Mascherano might deploy the Herons against the Fire.

Inter Miami Predicted Lineup vs. Chicago Fire (4-2-3-1)

GK: Oscar Ustari—The veteran 39-year-old goalkeeper has shouldered significant playing time throughout the campaign for Miami, and his experience will be crucial as the playoffs approach.

RB: Marcelo Weigandt—Following his absence from the previous two fixtures in favor of Ian Fray, Weigandt may reclaim his starting position as part of rotation management during this demanding period.

CB: Gonzalo Luján—With multiple center-back options available, selecting Luján ahead of the suspension-prone Tomas Aviles or Noah Allen could foster healthy competition within the defensive ranks.

CB: Maxi Falcón—The Uruguayan center-back has been instrumental in Miami's defensive resurgence, though he has displayed signs of wear from extensive playing time.

LB: Jordi Alba—The ex-FC Barcelona fullback delivered an excellent cross for Tadeo Allende's strike against Toronto FC.

DM: Sergio Busquets—This represents the concluding phase for Sergio Busquets, who aims to maximize his playing time before retiring at season's end.

DM: Rodrigo De Paul—As Busquets prepares for retirement, De Paul's move to Inter Miami will be finalized during the offseason, with the Argentine becoming a Designated Player.

RW: Telasco Segovia—Effective in confined areas, Segovia's appearances have been sporadic lately, but he should earn a starting berth for the midweek encounter.

AM: Lionel Messi—Holding a single-goal advantage over LAFC's Denis Bouanga in the MLS Golden Boot race, Messi will aim to extend his tally against Chicago.

LW: Baltasar Rodriguez—Despite limited opportunities alongside Telasco Segovia, Mascherano might test this pairing of wide attacking players on Tuesday.

ST: Luis Suárez—The veteran striker has regressed this campaign with only seven goals, falling short of his 2024 Golden Boot contention form.