Inter Miami begins their month of October with the MLS fixture against Columbus Crew. The Herons have traveled to Lower.com Field to face the Ohio-based club. A victory in this one would see the Florida side secure their hands on the Eastern Conference Supporters Shield. With just moments until the kick-off, the question looms whether Lionel Messi will be present for this crucial moment.

After being AWOL due to his ankle injury sustained during the Copa America final, the Argentinian superstar finally made a return to the team during the 3-1 victory over Philadelphia on September 15. He announced his return with a brace and an assist in that win. Since then, the 37-year-old has been available at Tata Martino’s disposal in the last three consecutive games.

Luckily, today remains a similar possibility. Lionel Messi will play tonight against Columbus Crew. Wilfried Nancy’s side are expected to put their best foot forward and will give their everything to deny Miami go back home with a win. Hence, the former Barcelona man is expected to get his name on the scoresheet for the sake of the team, even though that hasn’t brought victories in the previous ones.

While Messi managed to find the back of the net in the previous 1-1 draw over Charlotte, he failed to do so against Atlanta United (2-2) and New York City. This also underlines Miami’s vague run in the past three fixtures, so it’s difficult to say they would be able to secure a victory. But this is the challenge that Messi and Co. should consider taking up.

Notably, Columbus is coming off a 2-2 draw against DC United over the weekend. They recently surpassed FC Cincinnati to claim second place, with only a one-point margin separating the two teams. Despite their 57-point total [16W-2D-5L], Columbus has significant ground to cover to catch up with league leaders Inter Miami, who are 8 points ahead with 65 points [19W-8D-4L].

Hence, this is a perfect chance for Tata Martino and Co. to cement their chances of winning the Supporter’s Shield. Though the presence of Messi gives hope of guarantee, other absentees make things a bit worrisome.

Inter Miami still grapples with key injuries despite the presence of Lionel Messi

The injury list remains largely unchanged, although a few Inter Miami stars have successfully recovered. Starting with the defensive pair, Facundo Farías and Nicolás Freire are sidelined due to knee injuries. Meanwhile, attacking star Leo Afonso and defender David Martinez are both dealing with groin issues, and reserve goalkeeper CJ dos Santos is out with a hand injury.

It’s unclear as to whether all the aforementioned players who are sidelined will be able to make it for the MLS playoffs. Their return date hasn’t been disclosed. Regardless, the good news is that the rest of the squad appears fit and ready to rally for the remaining three challenges as Miami prepares to wrap up their regular season with a potential Supporters’ Shield victory.