Inter Miami vs Charlotte FC: A Pivotal MLS Matchup with Implications for the Season

Inter Miami faces Charlotte FC in key MLS game: How to watch, will Lionel Messi play?

Inter Miami CF and Lionel Messi may have already been eliminated from MLS playoff contention, but their final two regular-season games hold great significance for the league’s Eastern Conference postseason race. Inter Miami’s opponents on Wednesday night, Charlotte FC, are one of five teams vying for the remaining playoff spots in the Eastern Conference. With the race for the playoffs heating up, this pivotal matchup between Inter Miami and Charlotte FC could have far-reaching implications.

The Eastern Conference Playoff Race

CF Montréal currently leads the group of playoff contenders with 41 points and holds the eighth position. Behind them are the New York Red Bulls and Chicago Fire FC, both tied with 40 points, followed by Charlotte FC with 39 points and New York City FC with 38 points. Charlotte FC has the advantage of having two regular-season games left, while their fellow playoff chasers only have one. This gives them an opportunity to secure valuable points and potentially advance to the playoffs.

Inter Miami as the Spoiler

Although Inter Miami’s playoff hopes have already been extinguished with their recent loss to FC Cincinnati, they can still play the role of spoiler in the remaining matches. The rescheduling of the fixtures has resulted in Inter Miami facing Charlotte FC twice in four days, presenting them with a chance to impact the playoff race. A strong finish to the season could provide Inter Miami with momentum going forward, particularly as they aim to contend for titles in the MLS Cup and the Concacaf Champions Cup in 2024 when Lionel Messi is expected to be a part of the team.

Lionel Messi’s Availability

While Lionel Messi will not be in the starting lineup for Inter Miami’s game against Charlotte FC on Wednesday night, there is a possibility that he will feature in the match on Saturday, which is the league’s final regular-season matchday. Immediately after playing in Argentina’s World Cup qualifier against Peru, Messi expressed his intention to join the team for their game against Charlotte FC on Saturday. His presence could potentially provide excitement and boost attendance at Charlotte’s Bank of American Stadium.

Messi’s commitment to Inter Miami for the foreseeable future was reaffirmed when he dismissed rumors of a potential loan move during the MLS offseason. Despite Inter Miami’s failure to make the playoffs, Messi acknowledged the importance of winning the Leagues Cup in August and expressed his focus on training and playing in the upcoming match against Charlotte FC.

Potential Impact on Inter Miami’s Future

Inter Miami’s disappointing season, coupled with Lionel Messi’s injury struggles, have presented challenges for the team. However, as they look towards the future, a strong finish and positive performances in the remaining matches could provide optimism and lay the groundwork for a successful campaign in 2024. With Messi expected to play a key role in the team’s future, his presence in these crucial games can further ignite excitement and anticipation among fans.

Conclusion

The match between Inter Miami and Charlotte FC holds significant implications for the Eastern Conference playoff race in the MLS. Despite being eliminated from playoff contention, Inter Miami has an opportunity to impact the outcome of the race by playing the role of spoiler. Lionel Messi’s potential involvement in the match on Saturday adds an element of excitement and anticipation. As Inter Miami looks towards the future, a strong finish to the season can provide momentum and optimism for the team’s prospects in the MLS and beyond.