After spending a few weeks in Saudi Arabia, Inter Miami has embarked on the Hong Kong tour. The Herons have landed in East Asia to face Hong Kong’s Best XI in a much-anticipated friendly encounter on Sunday, February 4, at 3 a.m. ET. Just like the previous contests, this match also holds importance for Lionel Messi and Co., who are still on the hunt to clinch their first victory in 2024. 

On the other hand, supporters as well as the players of Hong Kong XI are hooked on the opportunity to witness La Pulga grace the So Kon Po turf. That said, let’s dive deeper to learn more about the lineups, predictions, injury news, and how to catch the action live. 

Hong Kong XI vs Inter Miami: Preview

Pressure continues to build on Tata Martino’s side, who have made a poor start to their pre-season. Following a goalless draw against El Salvador, they suffered three consecutive defeats—a 1-0 loss to FC Dallas, a disappointing run in the Riyadh Season Cup; a 4-3 setback against a Neymar-less Al Hilal, and a recent 6-0 drubbing at the hands of a Cristiano Ronaldo-less Al Nassr.

Meanwhile, as the Hong Kong Premier League continues its domestic campaign this weekend, a select few players will get the opportunity to play in a special Sunday encounter. This is the first time that an All-Star team will be playing a friendly against Inter Miami.

Injury updates on Inter Miami and Hong Hong XI

Although Lionel Messi made a brief appearance against Al Nassr, reports said that the Argentine had minor hamstring problems. However, Tata Martino gave a positive update on the captain. The situation remains unchanged for Benjamin Cremaschi, Ian Fray, Franco Negri, Facundo Farias, and Corentin Jean, who are still sidelined because of injury. 

As for the Hong Kong XI, a fit set of players has been chosen by Norwegian manager Jorn Andersen, so no concerns there. 

Expected Lineups for Hong Kong XI vs Inter Miami 

Hong Kong XI (4-4-2 formation): Yapp; Ngai Hoi, Mingazov, Angel, Chow; Gerbig, Burkatt, Kwan, Gondra; Camargo, Anier.

Inter Miami (3-5-2 formation): Dos Santos; Kryvtsov, Aviles, Allen; Sunderland, Ruiz, Gregore, Gressel, Yedlin; Taylor, Campana.

READ MORE: Will Lionel Messi Play Against Hong Kong XI? Latest Injury Update on Inter Miami Star

Predictions and Odds: Hong Kong XI vs Inter Miami

Hong Kong XI to win: 11.00

Inter Miami to win: 1.12

Game to end in a draw: 7.50

Despite Inter Miami being on a poor run, we reckon that Lionel Messi and his teammates will finally seal the deal and open their win account. We predict that David Beckham‘s soccer club will win 0:3 against Hong Kong XI.

How to watch Hong Kong XI vs. Inter Miami?

The match can be watched and streamed live online in the United States and globally via Apple TV, utilizing the MLS Season Pass.

WATCH THIS STORY: Max Verstappen joins Lionel Messi in creating special historic feat