Messi, Inter Miami Shift Focus to Minnesota United in Key Road Clash
Fresh off a dominant league win and with their Concacaf Champions Cup run now in the rearview, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami head to Saint Paul on Saturday for a rare meeting with Minnesota United. With league play now the sole focus, Miami will look to continue its ascent up the Eastern Conference standings.
Miami Zeros In on MLS Ambitions
Inter Miami (6-1-3, 21 points) comes into the weekend riding high after a 4-1 rout of the New York Red Bulls, a win that featured long-awaited goals from both Messi and Luis Suarez. The club’s elimination from the Champions Cup earlier this month has opened up their calendar, giving them a chance to narrow their focus and gain ground in league play.
Want To Know What’s Shaping The Industry? Read The Latest Gambling News Now!
“We’re going to fight for the top spots in the Eastern Conference… the most important game is the next one.”
— Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami Coach
Miami now sits fourth in the East and will face Minnesota and Orlando in quick succession during a five-day road swing. For bettors eyeing MLS soccer predictions, the reduced fixture congestion could make Inter Miami a more consistent and focused side in the weeks ahead.
Messi and Suarez Back on the Scoresheet
Both Messi and Suarez snapped goal droughts in last weekend’s victory. While neither star had found the net in their previous four appearances across all competitions, their scoring return could mark the beginning of another surge for one of the league’s most dangerous attacking duos.
With Miami’s full attacking unit seemingly back in rhythm, this could spell trouble for a Minnesota defense that’s been solid—but not impenetrable.
Minnesota Balancing Cup and League Play
Minnesota United (5-2-4, 19 points) currently sits second in the Western Conference but has had to balance its league push with a U.S. Open Cup campaign. The Loons advanced to the Round of 16 on Wednesday with a 1-0 win over Louisville City, thanks to a 65th-minute goal from Darius Randell.
“We’re just taking it one game at a time, and Saturday is going to be a big one.”
— Sang Bin Jeong, Minnesota Midfielder
The added workload could test the squad’s depth, especially with a quick turnaround. Still, the energy around this match will be high, particularly with the subplot of Julian Gressel facing his former club.
Looking For Betting Success? Start With The Expert Betting Guide.
Gressel Set for Miami Reunion
Saturday’s contest will mark the first time Julian Gressel lines up against Inter Miami since being waived last month. Gressel, who started 31 games for Miami in 2023, has embraced a new chapter with the Loons and is expected to play a key role in this pivotal matchup.
“Ultimately, I’m happy to be here.”
— Julian Gressel, Minnesota United Midfielder
His inside knowledge of Miami’s system could be a valuable asset for Minnesota as they look to contain Messi and company.