Will Lionel Messi Play Tonight in FC Cincinnati vs Inter Miami MLS 2026 Match?

FC Cincinnati host Inter Miami at TQL Stadium in a high-stakes Eastern Conference MLS 2026 encounter. Currently third in the table, Miami looks to maintain its pressure on the leaders at the top of the table as they face a Cincinnati side that has remained unbeaten in their last six league outings. Lionel Messi Reacts as Barcelona Secure La Liga Title with El Clasico Victory over Real Madrid.

While sixth-placed Cincinnati seeks redemption following a 4-0 playoff thumping by Miami last November. The fixture coincides with '513 Day', a local celebration of Cincinnati’s area code, adding extra significance for the home supporters.  However, for Miami fans, Messi remains the focal point for the defending champions.

Will Lionel Messi Play Tonight in FC Cincinnati vs Inter Miami MLS 2026 Match?

Messi is expected to lead the Inter Miami attack. The Argentine superstar, who recently reached a historic milestone in Major League Soccer, has been confirmed in the starting line-up for the midweek Eastern Conference clash. Lionel Messi Backs Neymar Jr to Feature in FIFA 2026 World Cup Campaign For Brazil.

Concerns over the 38-year-old’s fitness have been dismissed following his instrumental performance in Saturday’s 4-2 victory over Toronto FC, where he recorded both a goal and two assists. Messi enters tonight’s game in sensational form, having recently become the fastest player in MLS history to reach 100 goal contributions.

He achieved the feat in just 64 regular-season matches, surpassing the previous record held by Sebastian Giovinco. So far this season, the reigning MLS MVP has netted nine goals, spearheading a Miami offence that leads the league in scoring.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 13, 2026 03:45 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).