FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Inter Miami will host FC Cincinnati without two of its biggest stars on Saturday, July 26.
Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba won’t play for Inter Miami, both serving a mandatory one-game absence for skipping the MLS All-Star Game earlier this week.
It’s a battle between two of the best clubs in the MLS Eastern Conference: Cincinnati sits atop the MLS Supporters’ Shield standings with 48 points, while Inter Miami is fifth place in the East with 41 points.
While Inter Miami has three games in hand to play this season due to their congested schedule, losing twice in two weeks to Cincinnati could hurt their chance to win the conference and contest for their second consecutive Supporters’ Shield title. Cincinnati won the regular-season title in 2023, while Inter Miami won it in 2024.
Cincinnati beat Inter Miami 3-0 on July 16, led by MVP candidate Evander, who scored two goals in the matchup.
Here’s what you need to know and stay tuned for live updates from USA TODAY Sports:
Inter Miami lineup vs. FC Cincinnati
FC Cincinnati starting lineup vs. Inter Miami
What time is the Inter Miami vs. FC Cincinnati match?
The match begins at 7:15 p.m. ET.
How to watch Inter Miami vs. FC Cincinnati on TV?
The match will be broadcast on FS1.
How to watch Inter Miami vs. FC Cincinnati on live stream?
The match will also be available to stream on AppleTV+ and MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
Is Lionel Messi playing tonight?
No, Messi is not playing against FC Cincinnati.
Why is Lionel Messi not playing tonight?
Messi was disciplined with a one-game absence by MLS commissioner Don Garber for skipping the MLS All-Star Game earlier this week in Austin, Texas.
Inter Miami vs. FC Cincinnati betting odds
Inter Miami still favored to win vs. Cincinnati, even without Messi, according to BETMGM.
Inter Miami: +130
Tie: +270
Cincinnati: +175
Over/under: 3.5 goals
When is Messi’s next game? Inter Miami upcoming schedule
Inter Miami will begin the 2025 Leagues Cup tournament after facing FC Cincinnati.
July 30: Inter Miami vs. Atlas FC, 7:30 p.m. ET
Aug. 2: Inter Miami vs. Club Necaxa, 7 p.m. ET
Aug. 6: Inter Miami vs. Pumas UNAM, 7:30 p.m.