Inter Miami, featuring Lionel Messi, is set to face the San Jose Earthquakes on Wednesday. Their recent form has been inconsistent, marked by a significant loss to Minnesota United in their previous match, despite a goal from Messi. This defeat highlighted Miami`s difficulties against stronger opposition and the impact of Luis Suarez`s absence, which seemed to allow Minnesota control of the game from start to finish.
Bruce Arena`s Earthquakes are expected to present a different challenge. While perhaps not as defensively stout as Minnesota, they are formidable in attack. San Jose currently leads the league in goals scored with 26, though they have also conceded 20 goals. Arena`s team often relies on outscoring opponents in high-scoring contests, a strategy that has placed them above the playoff line this season, indicating significant improvement under his guidance.
Match Details
Here`s how you can find information about the match:
- Date: Wednesday, May 14
- Time: 10:30 p.m. ET
- Location: PayPal Park, San Jose, California
- Live Stream: Available via MLS Season Pass
- Odds: San Jose Earthquakes +165, Draw +270, Inter Miami +165
Last Encounter
This will be just the second historical meeting between San Jose and Inter Miami. Miami won their only previous match in March 2022. This visit marks Lionel Messi`s first time playing in San Jose, generating considerable local interest. While initial “Messi mania” across the country has somewhat normalized as he enters his second full season, his appearances at Western Conference stadiums often provide a debut viewing opportunity for many fans.
Coach Perspectives
High expectations are a constant at Inter Miami, contributing to the departure of previous coach Tata Martino and now creating pressure on Javier Mascherano in his inaugural season. Mascherano`s challenges have been compounded by recruitment issues, notably the failure to secure adequate depth in key positions. However, the presence of Messi inherently raises expectations for victory, regardless of other roster limitations. Following the loss to Minnesota, Mascherano took responsibility for the tactical shortcomings.
“Every time we were attacking, unfortunately, we were very vulnerable on transitions after losing the ball. That’s what worries me the most. If the players’ performance drops, the responsibility is entirely mine. In the end, there’s a coach – and if the players aren’t convinced by what the coach is proposing, it’s the coach’s fault,” Mascherano stated.
Miami needs to find ways to defeat playoff contenders, making this match against San Jose a crucial test.
Predicted Lineups
San Jose Earthquakes:
- Daniel
- Daniel Munie
- David Romney
- Rodrigues
- Vitor Costa
- Beau Leroux
- Ian Harkes
- DeJuan Jones
- Ousseni Bouda
- Cristian Arango
- Christian Espinoza
Inter Miami:
- Oscar Ustari
- Jordi Alba
- Noah Allen
- Tomas Aviles
- Marcelo Weigandt
- Tadeo Allende
- Yannick Bright
- Sergio Busquts
- Fafa Picault
- Lionel Messi
- Allen Obando
Player to Watch
Cristian Arango, San Jose Earthquakes: Arango has been a transformative signing for San Jose, currently leading the MLS Golden Boot race with eight goals and one assist. He`s a legitimate MVP candidate, and matches like this against high-profile opponents are ideal opportunities to strengthen his case. Playing against Messi will add extra motivation, promising an intense performance from Arango in front of an energized home crowd.
Storyline to Watch
The defensive vulnerability of Inter Miami is a major talking point. Having conceded 12 goals in their last three matches, their defense faces serious questions. The team has encountered recent difficulties and must demonstrate resilience, particularly on the road after conceding four goals in a humbling loss at Minnesota. With Messi on the squad, wins are expected, but other players must elevate their performance, especially when Luis Suarez is unavailable. Failure to find solutions before the Club World Cup could lead to a challenging period for Miami.
Prediction
Inter Miami`s defensive struggles are likely to persist against San Jose`s potent attack, spearheaded by Cristian Arango. While Miami will likely score, it may not be sufficient to secure a positive outcome.
Predicted Score: San Jose Earthquakes 3, Inter Miami 2