Inter Miami returns to action today for their MLS playoffs! The Herons will face a familiar opponent, but this time on different turf, as they travel to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, to face Atlanta United for the second time. As excitement builds for the clash, the obvious question looms: Will Lionel Messi play tonight?

During the last fixture where Tata Martino and Co. secured a close 2-1 victory at the Chase Stadium on October 26, the Argentinian was present on the pitch for the whole 90 minutes. This wasn’t the case in their final regular season clash against the New England Revolution, where he was rested from the start of the game but was later introduced around the hour mark, only to get a hattrick.

Of course, that was a precautionary call from Tata Martino, who’d surely want his star player to stay fit for these crucial matches. Thankfully, as it has been more than six days since La Pulga played last time, we don’t see a reason why he can’t play today. So, the good news is that Lionel Messi will be playing tonight against Atlanta United. The Miami skipper managed to receive enough rest, even though he remained on the pitch for the precious clash.

Sadly, Messi didn’t get his name on the scoresheet in the previous clash. Instead, the Supporters’ Shield winners took an early lead just 2 minutes into the game with a well-placed finish from Luis Suarez. Although Atlanta responded before halftime to equalize, Jordi Alba netted the winner for Tata Martino’s side around the hour mark. Perhaps, in the next match, the former PSG star will add his name to the scoresheet.

Regardless, the end note is that Messi should be playing tonight, except for the fact that Miami is still in a wee bit of an injury crisis!

Injury concerns remain for Lionel Messi and Co. ahead of the second MLS playoff clash vs Atlanta United

The team faces several injury setbacks leading up to the match. David Martinez is still recovering from a groin injury and may see his return delayed. Likewise, C. Dos Santos is sidelined with a hand injury, while Leonardo Afonso is also out with a groin injury; both are expected to return around late October. Nicolas Freire, however, remains out long-term after a season-ending ACL injury.

As Miami aims to make the most of its roster to strengthen its playoff position, it’s worth noting that this rematch won’t be an easy one. The David Beckham-owned team could face a challenge from the home side in this away fixture. Rob Valentino and his squad have surely prepared thoroughly for this second showdown. Then again, the presence of Lionel Messi should give them a world of confidence.