Inter Miami faces FC Cincinnati on Saturday, July 26, in a crucial Major League Soccer clash at Chase Stadium, Fort Lauderdale, with kickoff at 7:15 p.m. ET. The match gains extra attention due to the absence of Inter Miami superstars Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba, both suspended for missing the MLS All-Star Game without league approval[1][2][3][5]. The suspension was confirmed by MLS, and Miami’s owner Jorge Mas called it “draconian,” with Messi reportedly “extremely upset” about the ruling[3].
Despite these setbacks, Inter Miami enters the match after a dominant 5-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls, bringing their season record to 12-4-5 (41 points)[3][4]. The team has relied on its attacking depth, with forwards and attacking midfielders contributing 42 of Miami’s 49 goals this MLS regular season. Messi leads the team with 18 goals but will be unavailable; Allende and Segovia each have seven goals, while Luis Suárez has five[4].
FC Cincinnati, leading the Eastern Conference with 48 points from 24 games, arrives in top form—winning six of their previous seven matches, including a 1-0 road victory against Real Salt Lake last week[1][2][4][6]. Their attacking midfielder, Evander, has been critical to their success, tallying 15 goals and eight assists this season[3][4]. Evander also stood out in the recent All-Star Game as captain and Skills Challenge record-holder[3]. Cincinnati’s attack is further supported by Luca Orellano, who scored the winner against Real Salt Lake[3].
Key absences for Miami, aside from Messi and Alba, include goalkeeper Oscar Ustari (injured) and Maxi Falcon (yellow card accumulation). Cincinnati will be without Ahoueke Denkey, Obinna Nwobodo, and Yuya Kubo due to injuries[3].
The all-time head-to-head between the sides is closely contested: Inter Miami leads with six wins to Cincinnati’s five, and two draws[4]. However, Cincinnati prevailed 3-0 on July 16 in their most recent encounter, giving Miami extra motivation for revenge[1][2][6].
Bookmakers have Miami as slight favorites for this home fixture despite the suspensions, with odds reflecting the tight balance and anticipation over which team will gain ground atop the Eastern Conference[2]. The match will be broadcast on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV[3].
References
- [1] Inter Miami vs FC Cincinnati: Preview, Predictions and …
- [2] Inter Miami vs. FC Cincinnati prediction, odds, start time
- [3] Lionel Messi: Inter Miami vs FC Cincinnati live stream …
- [4] MATCH PREVIEW: Inter Miami CF Hosts FC Cincinnati …
- [5] Inter Miami CF Players Unavailable for July 26 Match vs. …
- [6] Inter Miami Vs FC Cincinnati- Expected Starting Lineups …
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