Inter Miami Faces Orlando City Without Star New Signing Due to Injury—Complete Team Preview
Current MLS Cup holders Inter Miami return to the field this weekend, looking for their inaugural goal and points of the 2026 MLS campaign following a disappointing 3–0 loss to LAFC in their season opener.
Their second fixture of the season brings them face-to-face with state rivals Orlando City for the 20th encounter in their shared history, providing an opportunity to address the shortcomings from their California clash and establish a better rhythm early in the campaign.
After a midweek 2–1 exhibition victory in Puerto Rico against Ecuador's Independiente del Valle, during which Messi was brought down by a supporter and security personnel, the Herons aim to carry that offensive momentum into MLS competition.
As expected, head coach Javier Mascherano will have an abundance of skilled players at his disposal.
Winter Signing Already Unavailable
Winter Signing Already Unavailable
The crucial element for Miami's success this weekend and throughout much of 2026 will be the offensive partnership between Lionel Messi and high-profile winter acquisition, forward Germán Berterame. The duo appeared disconnected against LAFC, but their chemistry should improve in the coming weeks—possibly starting this Sunday.
Mascherano will be unable to utilize new star defender Sergio Reguilón, as the ex-Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United left-back remains out with a knee injury. Additionally, the Herons will be without midfielder David Ayala, who is dealing with the passing of his father.
Inter Miami Expected Formation vs. LAFC (4-2-3-1)
Inter Miami Expected Formation vs. LAFC (4-2-3-1)
GK: Dayne St. Clair—Following some positional lapses against LAFC, St. Clair will aim to strengthen his rapport with the defensive line, hoping to recapture the excellence that secured him MLS Goalkeeper of the Year recognition with Minnesota United last season.
RB: Ian Fray—The Jamaican international will seek to provide greater attacking threat after being outshone by substitute Facundo Mura in the previous match.
CB: Maxi Falcón—An integral component of Miami's defense, Falcón demonstrated significant improvement throughout 2025, but fell back into previous mistakes and poor positioning against LAFC, issues he'll want to resolve on Sunday.
CB: Micael—Returning to MLS following a brief stint in Brazil, Micael may need time to establish a solid partnership with Falcón at the center of Miami's defensive line.
LB: Noah Allen—A Greek youth international, Allen has demonstrated his adaptability and appears to have secured the starting left-back position heading into 2026.
DM: Rodrigo De Paul—The World Cup champion has maintained a flexible positional role with Inter Miami since his arrival, but should establish more stability in defensive midfield with the restructured squad composition.
DM: Yannick Bright—Among Miami's most successful MLS SuperDraft picks, Bright will receive increased offensive responsibilities in the defensive partnership alongside De Paul.
RW: Tadeo Allende—Following an impressive 20-goal campaign in 2025, Allende seeks to secure his first starting position of 2026.
AM: Lionel Messi—It hasn't been an ideal week for Lionel Messi. Following his difficulties against LAFC, he was knocked down by supporters and security during a midseason exhibition. He'll aim to overcome these setbacks with a strong showing
LW: Mateo Silvetti—Silvetti enjoys Mascherano's confidence and will strive to meet expectations in this rivalry match.
ST: Germán Berterame—With one MLS fixture and two friendly matches now completed, the Mexican international continues building chemistry with Messi and Miami's attacking corps, aspiring to emerge as an MLS Golden Boot candidate.