Messi to Miss Florida Derby Clash — Injury Update
Orlando, August 10, 2025 – The much-anticipated Florida Derby between Orlando City and Inter Miami is just around the corner. However, the spotlight has shifted from star power to strategy after the news broke that Lionel Messi will not be playing. This update has added fresh intrigue to one of Major League Soccer’s most competitive rivalries.
Why Lionel Messi Won’t Play Against Orlando City?
Messi’s absence from Inter Miami is due to a minor muscular issue, according to Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano.
“We don’t want to take unnecessary risks considering the busy schedule ahead,” Mascherano explained.
While Messi is reportedly feeling better, the club has decided to rest him to ensure his full fitness for upcoming MLS fixtures.
Orlando City Predicted Starting XI
Orlando City are expected to stick with a balanced lineup, strengthened by the return of Eduard Atuesta in midfield.
Predicted Starting 11:
Goalkeeper: Pedro Gallese
Defenders: Rodrigo Schlegel, David Brekalo, Robin Jansson (captain), and Alex Freeman
Midfielders: Marco Pasalic, Cesar Araujo, Eduard Atuesta, Ivan Angulo, Martin Ojeda
Forward: Luis Muriel
Manager: Oscar Pareja
Atuesta’s return in place of Kyle Smith could be a game-changer in the midfield battle. With Ojeda and Muriel in top form, Orlando will look to dominate in both creativity and attacking sharpness.
Inter Miami Predicted Starting XI (Without Messi)
Inter Miami will make key adjustments to cover for Messi’s absence. Rodrigo De Paul and Luis Suarez will lead the attack, supported by a midfield anchored by Sergio Busquets.
Predicted Starting 11:
Goalkeeper: Rocco Ríos Novo
Defenders: Marcelo Weigandt, Gonzalo Luján, Maximiliano Falcón, Jordi Alba
Midfielders: Yannick Bright, Rodrigo De Paul, Sergio Busquets, Telasco Segovia
Forwards: Tadeo Allende, Luis Suarez
Manager: Javier Mascherano
The notable change is Yannick Bright replacing Fede Redondo, adding a different energy to the midfield alongside Busquets.
MLS Rivalry History and Tactical Stakes:
This isn’t just another regular-season match — it’s a Florida Derby with playoff implications. Orlando City is now sixth in the Eastern Conference with 41 points (having played one more game), whereas Inter Miami is currently fifth with 42 points.
Key Tactical Notes:
Without Messi, De Paul and Suarez carry the creative and scoring responsibilities for Miami.
De Paul recently netted his first goal for Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup, signaling his growing influence.
Orlando’s Ojeda scored twice against Necaxa, and Muriel recently recorded one of the fastest hat-tricks in MLS history.
Match Significance — More Than Just Three Points
Both teams are eyeing direct playoff qualification. The result will not only influence the table but also give the winning side a psychological edge for the rest of the season.
Focus for Inter Miami: Use De Paul and Busquets to control the ball while providing Suarez with offensive positions.
Orlando City’s Game Plan: Use midfield creativity to break Miami’s defensive shape and exploit counter-attacks.
Final Thoughts
With Lionel Messi out, this MLS clash takes on a new narrative. Orlando City will smell opportunity, while Inter Miami will look to prove they can win without their biggest star.
Kick-off: Monday, August 11, 2025 — 8:00 PM ET.
Will Inter Miami hold their ground without Messi, or will Orlando City seize the moment in front of their home fans?
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