Inter Miami has proved that they can dominate matches without Lionel Messi. Against the Vancouver Whitecaps, the Herons were without Messi, Suarez, and Busquets. Yet, Tata Martino’s side put up an impressive performance and won the game 2-1. The win takes the Herons to the top of the table. Up next is a home match against Atlanta United. Martino’s side has a chance to make history in the said game. Avoiding defeat would mean that Inter Miami will achieve their longest-unbeaten run at Chase Stadium.

Their opponent Atlanta United is yet to hit top gear this season. In 14 matches, they managed to accumulate just 13 points. Furthermore, they haven’t recorded a win in their last 4 games. On paper, Inter Miami looks too strong for Atlanta. But does Gonzalo Pineda’s side have a surprise up their sleeve? Before we make the prediction, let’s look at the latest team news.

Team and injury news

For Inter Miami, there are 4 confirmed absentees. Midfielder Facundo Farias and defenders Nicolas Freire, and Ian Fray are out with ACL injuries and won’t be available anytime soon. Also, winger Robbie Robinson has missed 20 games since his calf injury in February and won’t make it against Atlanta. There are also question marks regarding Diego Gomez who is nursing an ankle sprain issue. Yet, there is good news as Lionel Messi, Busquets, and Suarez are expected to return to the Starting XI. The trio was rested against Vancouver and would be fresh and raring to go.

Atlanta United are perhaps more unlucky with regards to unavailabilities. Their first-choice goalkeeper Brad Guzan is suspended after receiving a red card. Winger Tyler Wolff is out with an MCL sprain. The questionable cases include Noah Cobb (ankle) and Nicolas Firmino (groin).

Inter Miami vs Atlanta United: Predicted Lineups

Inter Miami expected XI (4-3-3): Callender; Weigandt, Freire, Aviles, Alba; Busquets, Gressel, Redondo; Messi, Rojas, Suarez

Atlanta United expected XI (4-4-2): Cohen; Lennon, Abram, Williams, Wiley; Mosquera, Almada, Slisz, Silva; Fortune, Thiare

Match prediction

When Lionel Messi is in the squad, Inter Miami is a different animal. Moreover, the Herons also have the home advantage. In the past 6 meetings between the two sides at Chase Stadium, Atlanta United hasn’t had a single victory! Therefore we predict more of the same with Inter Miami winning 3-0 and Messi amongst the goalscorers.

Inter Miami vs Atlanta United: When and where to watch

The match kicks off at Chase Stadium on May 30, Wednesday at 7:30 PM ET. Viewers around the world can stream the match via the Apple MLS Season Pass.

Will Inter Miami walk away the winners? Or can Atlanta United put an end to their unbeaten run at Chase Stadium? Let us know your predictions below.