NYCFC Clash with Inter Miami: Bold Predictions and Starting XI Revealed
Inter Miami head to Queens this Wednesday for a crucial clash against New York City FC in what promises to be a pivotal encounter.
The Herons, seeking to capitalize on their matches in hand, have the opportunity to leapfrog NYCFC in the Eastern Conference table with a victory. However, even a tie would be sufficient to guarantee their spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs.
NYCFC hold the historical advantage, having claimed victory in eight of their 13 encounters with Inter Miami throughout their rivalry. Pascal Jansen's squad enters on a hot streak with three consecutive wins, most recently defeating Charlotte FC. After falling just one match short of the MLS Cup championship last season, NYCFC will be motivated to deliver another impressive display as Lionel Messi arrives in town.
Here's Sports Illustrated's comprehensive preview for NYCFC vs. Inter Miami.
When Does NYCFC vs. Inter Miami Begin?
NYCFC vs. Inter Miami Historical Matchup Record
Recent Form (All Competitions)
NYCFC | Inter Miami |
|---|---|
NYCFC 2–0 Charlotte FC - 9/20/25 | Inter Miami 3–2 D.C. United - 9/20/25 |
NYCFC 3–2 Columbus Crew - 9/17/25 | Inter Miami 3–1 Seattle Sounders - 9/16/25 |
Chicago Fire 1–3 NYCFC - 9/13/25 | Charlotte FC 3–0 Inter Miami - 9/13/25 |
NYCFC 1–2 D.C. United - 8/30/25 | Seattle Sounders 3–0 Inter Miami - 8/31/25 |
FC Cincinnati 0–1 NYCFC - 8/23/25 | Inter Miami 3–1 Orlando City - 8/27/25 |
Where to Watch NYCFC vs. Inter Miami on Television
Region | Broadcasting Network |
|---|---|
United States and Rest of World | MLS Season Pass on Apple TV |
NYCFC Squad Updates
New York City arrive in excellent form, securing four victories in their previous five matches heading into Citi Field. Alonso Martínez netted twice from the penalty spot in their recent triumph over Charlotte FC, delivering a commanding performance for Pascal Jansen's team. Throughout this MLS campaign, Martínez has contributed 17 goals and two assists.
A victory against Inter Miami would create a four-point gap between the clubs, although the Herons still possess matches in hand. This win is vital for potentially securing home-field advantage in the opening round's best-of-three playoff series.
Matt Freese is expected to guard the goal in a largely unchanged starting eleven. Keaton Parks, Malachi Jones, and Nico Cavallo were all absent from the Charlotte victory and will remain unavailable for the Miami fixture.
NYCFC Expected Starting XI vs. Inter Miami
NYCFC Expected Starting XI vs. Inter Miami (4-4-2): Freese; Ilenič, Martins, Raul, O'Toole; Moralez, Perea, Haak, Wolf; Fernández, Martínez
Inter Miami Squad Updates
The Herons welcome back Luis Suárez following his three-match ban stemming from his involvement in the Leagues Cup final incident. After Javier Mascherano deployed Jordi Alba in an advanced role during key wins against Seattle Sounders and D.C. United, he should revert to his customary left-back position.
With Suárez spearheading the attack and Messi operating wide, Tadeo Allende is likely to round out the front three after finding the net in their last outing. Telasco Segovia will be unavailable due to yellow card accumulation.
Messi, eager to conclude the regular season on a high, remains locked in an intense battle for the MLS Golden Boot. The Argentine superstar and LAFC's Denis Bouanga are deadlocked at 22 goals, with both strikers maintaining their prolific scoring pace.
Inter Miami Expected Starting XI vs. NYCFC
Inter Miami Expected Starting XI vs. NYCFC (4-3-3): Ustari; Weigandt, Luján, Falcón, Alba; De Paul, Busquets, Bright; Messi, Suárez, Allende.
NYCFC vs. Inter Miami Final Score Forecast
Inter Miami haven't managed to defeat NYCFC since August 13, 2022. At that time, Gonzalo Higuaín was their primary striker, which puts the drought into perspective.
Both squads will undoubtedly attack aggressively given the playoff stakes involved. This match should feature plenty of scoring opportunities, but Miami gains more from a stalemate than NYCFC considering their games in hand advantage. The points will be split at Citi Field.
Final Score Forecast: NYCFC 2–2 Inter Miami