Where to watch Lionel Messi and Inter Miami vs. San Jose Earthquakes: MLS pick, odds, lineups

Inter Miami, featuring Lionel Messi, has recently demonstrated inconsistent form, often seeing steps back after moments of progress. Their significant defeat to Minnesota United in the previous match, despite Messi scoring, highlighted their difficulties when facing strong opposition. The absence of Luis Suarez in that game further underlined a lack of depth in attack, which allowed Minnesota to control the match from beginning to end.

Bruce Arena`s San Jose Earthquakes will present a different challenge. While perhaps not offering the same defensive rigidity as Minnesota, their attack is formidable. San Jose leads MLS this season in goals scored (26), although they have also conceded frequently (20 goals against). Arena appears to be balancing the team`s strategy on outscoring opponents in high-scoring affairs, a tactic that has currently positioned them above the playoff qualification line – a notable improvement under his leadership this season.

Last Meeting

This upcoming match will be only the second encounter between San Jose and Inter Miami. Miami secured victory in their sole previous meeting in March 2022. Lionel Messi`s first visit to San Jose is generating considerable excitement, particularly as many venues in the Western Conference have not yet had the opportunity to host the Argentine superstar.

What the Coaches Are Saying

High expectations are a constant at Inter Miami, contributing to Tata Martino`s relatively short tenure and now placing pressure on Javier Mascherano in his first season. While recruitment challenges, including a lack of adequate backups in key positions, haven`t helped, the presence of Messi means the team is expected to win regardless of other squad limitations. Mascherano accepted responsibility for the tactics after the loss to Minnesota United.

`Every time we were attacking, unfortunately, we were very vulnerable on transitions after losing the ball. That’s what worries me the most. If the players’ performance drops, the responsibility is entirely mine. In the end, there’s a coach – and if the players aren’t convinced by what the coach is proposing, it’s the coach’s fault,` Mascherano stated.

Adjustments are necessary if the Herons are to succeed against playoff-caliber teams, making this test against San Jose particularly important.

Predicted Lineups

Player to Watch

Cristian Arango, San Jose Earthquakes: Leading the race for the MLS Golden Boot with eight goals and one assist, Arango`s arrival has been transformative for San Jose. He is considered an MVP candidate, and matches like this one against Inter Miami provide a significant platform. The chance to potentially outshine Messi will undoubtedly fuel the already electric atmosphere in San Jose, motivating Arango.

Key Storyline

What is Inter Miami`s true form? Having conceded 12 goals in their last three matches, questions about Miami`s defensive stability are mounting. After facing adversity during the campaign, they must now demonstrate the ability to recover, especially in away games. The recent 4-goal defeat away to Minnesota was particularly humbling.

With high expectations for the team to win consistently with Messi, other players need to step up, particularly when Luis Suarez is not in the starting lineup. If Mascherano cannot find solutions before the Club World Cup, the summer could be challenging for the Herons.

Prediction

Inter Miami`s defensive struggles are predicted to continue, with San Jose`s potent attack finding success early and often, led by Arango. While Miami is expected to score goals of their own, it likely won`t be sufficient to secure a positive result.

Predicted Score: San Jose Earthquakes 3, Inter Miami 2