MLS has reached the half stage, and the competition will get tighter. Inter Miami has managed to turn the tides this season, staying on the top of the Eastern Conference. But their next challenge will be different, as they take on Western Conference team Vancouver Whitecaps in their den. Despite playing the #7 team, the match could be tough for the visitors, as the latest update on Lionel Messi’s presence looks bleak. However, can the hosts cash in on the injuries of Inter Miami? How is Tata Martino expected to approach this game in terms of his squad?
Meanwhile, the Herons are also expected to lose Messi for a few games later due to the Copa America. Hence, the chances of giving other players some game time could be possible. Nevertheless, according to the latest updates, the injuries are an issue for both sides tomorrow.
Vancouver vs Inter Miami: All you need to know
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Injury news
Inter Miami: David Beckham’s club has been put to the test this season with multiple injuries. Young talent Facundo Farias was ruled out for the entire period because of an ACL injury during the pre-season games. But now Nicolás Freire is also expected to be sidelined the same way. April saw midfielder Diego Gomez out with an ankle injury. But more importantly, reports suggest that Lionel Messi will not be available for the game and it has nothing to do with wounds. The Inter-Miami captain suffered a knock against Montreal but played against DC United. However, reports suggest that he, Luis Suarez, and Sergio Busquets will not take the 7-hour flight to Vancouver.
Vancouver: The Canadian team has just two injuries. Its midfielder Damir Kreilach is suffering an ankle injury and Sam Adekugbe sustained a calf issue against Austin.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Inter Miami expected XI: Drake Callender; Marcelo Weigandt, Tomas Aviles, Sergiy Kryvtsov, Jordi Alba; Julian Gressel, Benjamin Cremaschi, David Ruiz; Leonardo Campana, MatiasRojas, Robert Taylor.
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Vancouver expected XI: Yohei Takaoka; Mathías Laborda, Ranko Veselinovic, Tristan Blackmon; Javain Brown, Andrés Cubas, Pedro Vite, Ryan Raposo; Fafà Picault, White, Ryan Gauld.
Predictions
Both clubs haven’t faced each other yet in a single game. But with key players sidelined for David Beckham’s club, Vancouver will sight relief. The contest is expected to be even between both the teams and we are expecting a 1-1 draw.
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When and where to watch the match?
The game will kick off at BC Place in Vancouver British Columbia on Saturday, 25th, May 2024 at 2230 hrs ET/ 1930hrs PST. Fans worldwide can watch the game with Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass subscription.