Yardbarker
x
Is Lionel Messi Playing Tonight For Inter Miami vs Seattle Sounders?
Scott Kinser-Imagn Images

Inter Miami will take on the Seattle Sounders following their 3-0 defeat in the Leagues Cup final. With the rivalry at an all-time high after the post-match events, Lionel Messi will need to deliver one of his best performances of the year to give Miami a fighting chance at home.

The responsibility to secure a win in this second matchup of the season against Seattle now rests squarely on Messi’s shoulders, especially with Luis Suárez suspended. Inter Miami risks missing the playoffs if they drop more points, making Tuesday, September 16, a must-win for the team.

Manager Javier Mascherano faces the tough task of boosting the offense without leaving gaps in defense. Miami’s squad simply doesn’t have enough depth to make the game even, particularly against a Sounders defense that conceded almost nothing in the Leagues Cup final.

Will Lionel Messi Play Tonight Against Seattle Sounders?

Before their most recent game against Charlotte FC, Miami’s manager confirmed that Messi had no issues in training and felt great following one of his last games for Argentina before the 2026 World Cup. He could still skip the tournament, but tonight, Messi is expected to play.

This match is one of the most important of the season. If Miami doesn’t come away with at least a draw, they’ll need to win big in the coming weeks and rely on setbacks from Columbus Crew and New York City to keep playoff hopes alive.

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

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!