Is Lionel Messi Playing Tonight for Inter Miami Against Orlando City?

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Is Lionel Messi Playing Tonight for Inter Miami Against Orlando City?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Emmanuel Mendez | Last updated May 2, 2026 2:20 PM ET

Inter Miami will play against Orlando City for the second Florida Derby of the season. The two teams met earlier this season, a few months ago.

In the previous Florida Derby, Lionel Messi was the man of the match after scoring a brace in Inter Miami's 4-2 win over Orlando City. Inter Miami were losing the game 2-0 at halftime.

Messi would score in the 57th minute and in the 90th minute to seal the win for the MLS Champions last March.

Messi has only missed one game for Inter Miami since the last match against Orlando City and played last weekend against the New England Revolution.

Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Peyton Miller #25 of New England Revolution during the MLS match between Inter Miami CF and New England Revolution at Nu Stadium on April 25, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images

Inter Miami fans will hope Messi plays against Orlando City for the first Florida Derby at Nu Stadium.

Lionel Messi Set to Start for Inter Miami vs Orlando City

Lionel Messi is not injured and is expected to start for Inter Miami against Orlando City tonight.

Messi has a good record against Orlando City since joining Inter Miami in 2023. Messi has scored a brace in the last two meetings against Orlando City in the MLS.

Inter Miami will be in search of getting their first win in their new stadium following three consecutive draws. Messi is the top goalscorer for Inter Miami so far this season with 7 goals.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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