Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images

New York City FC vs Inter Miami Lineups, Suspensions, Predictions & Early Team News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Emmanuel Mendez | Last updated Sep 24, 2025 2:43 PM ET

One of the most important clashes of the MLS this week is New York City FC against Inter Miami in New York City.

The match is between 4th-place NYFC against 5th-place Inter Miami, and they are separated by one point. Inter Miami could clinch its spot in the playoffs if they defeat NYCFC tonight.

Inter Miami's previous match was a 3-2 win over DC United at Chase Stadium. The goal scorers for the Herons were Tadeo Allende and Lionel Messi, who scored two goals.

NYCFC already qualified for the playoffs after beating Charlotte FC 2-0 over the weekend at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. NYCFC will host Inter Miami at Citi Field in Queens, New York.

The NYCFC vs Inter Miami game promises a competitive match-up as both teams have won their last two matches in the MLS.

Expected Lineups for NYCFC and Inter Miami

New York City FC

Goalkeeper: Matt Freese
Defenders: Kevin O'Toole, Raul, Thiago Martins, Tayvon Gray
Midfielders: Hannes Wolf, Justin Haak, Andres Perea, Maxi Moralez
Forwards: Alonso Martinez, Nicolas Fernandez

Inter Miami

Goalkeeper: Oscar Ustari
Defenders: Noah Allen, Maximiliano Falcon, Gonzalo Lujan, Marcelo Weigandt
Midfielders: Jordi Alba, Yannick Bright, Sergio Busquets, Rodrigo De Paul
Forwards: Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi

Luis Suarez is back in the Inter Miami squad after facing a three-match ban in the MLS following his actions in the 2025 Leagues Cup Final against the Seattle Sounders. Suarez trained and traveled with the team to New York City for the match and is expected to start.