The New York Red Bulls host Inter Miami CF in a highly anticipated Major League Soccer clash on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. ET. The Red Bulls enter the match riding high after a thrilling 5–3 comeback win over the New England Revolution, while Inter Miami aim to rebound from a 3–0 defeat to FC Cincinnati earlier in the week[1].
Both sides have compelling storylines. The Red Bulls, who sit 13th in MLS for goals scored (38) and seventh for clean sheets (7), will look to exploit a Miami squad grappling with fixture congestion and defensive rotations. Notably, Inter Miami recently parted ways with David Martinez (who returned to River Plate), further thinning their defensive options. However, Miami maintain strong ambitions in both the Eastern Conference and the Supporters’ Shield race, currently ranking fourth in points-per-game (1.9)[1].
Inter Miami face one of their busiest stretches of the season: the match marks their fifth in just 15 days since returning from the FIFA Club World Cup. Fatigue appeared to play a role in their recent loss, with even coach Javier Mascherano acknowledging the team’s challenge: “There’s not much time to dwell on [the loss]….with the goal of finishing this two-week marathon in the best possible way.”[2]
All eyes are on Lionel Messi’s status for this encounter. After training on Friday and traveling with the squad, Messi is expected to start against the Red Bulls, barring any late changes. Mascherano stated, “If he’s available and feeling good, he’ll most likely start.” The Argentine has been in stellar form, tallying 16 goals and 7 assists for the season, and has started every match for Miami since early May as he looks to maintain sharpness ahead of the 2026 World Cup[2]. On the Red Bulls’ side, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting leads the team with 13 goals, while Rocco Ríos Novo is anticipated to start in goal for Miami, with Óscar Ustari sidelined due to injury[3].[6]
The head-to-head history between the clubs is closely matched: New York has claimed six wins to Miami’s five, with no draws in their all-time meetings. Inter Miami claimed victory in their previous meeting this season, but the Red Bulls now have an opportunity to capitalize on Miami’s fatigue and roster challenges[1].
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