Inter Miami prepares for their third Major League Soccer game within a week as they face Nashville SC tonight at Chase Stadium in Miami. Lionel Messi, who has netted two braces in the last four MLS matches, is expected to headline the lineup for this highly anticipated clash between the Herons and the unbeaten Nashville side.

Match Overview and Team Standings

This marks Inter Miami’s first home game at Chase Stadium since their impressive 5-1 victory over Columbus Crew on May 31. They now face a challenging Nashville SC, which remains undefeated in its last 15 games and holds a formidable position in the league. Nashville currently sits second in the MLS Eastern Conference with 41 points from 21 games, while Inter Miami stands fifth with 35 points after 18 games.

Projected Lineups and Player Availability

Inter Miami is expected to field a 4-4-2 formation with Lionel Messi likely to start despite the team’s recent demanding match schedule. Head coach Javier Mascherano has indicated plans to manage Messi’s minutes carefully, emphasizing the star’s importance in tough fixtures like this one. Meanwhile, defenders Ian Fray and Noah Allen remain sidelined due to injuries. Goalkeeper Drake Callender is nearing full fitness but will miss the game, while David Ruiz could potentially return from injury to bolster the squad.

Nashville SC, also operating with a 4-4-2 setup, matches Inter Miami’s recent good form, having won their last five outings. Their key player, Sam Surridge, leads the league with 16 goals, two more than Messi’s tally this season. However, Nashville will compete without midfielder Jonathan Perez, who is suspended following a red card in the previous match against Philadelphia Union.

Broadcast Details and Historical Matchups

The Inter Miami vs Nashville SC game will be streamed live on Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass and broadcasted on several U.S. networks, including FS1, Fox Deportes, Fox Sports, and FuboTV. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:45 PM EST (4:45 PM PST).

Historically, Inter Miami and Nashville SC have faced each other 14 times, with Miami holding a slight edge: five wins to Nashville’s four, along with five draws. Their most recent meeting at Geodis Park ended in a 2-1 win for Miami, a match played without Messi.