Inter Miami is set to face the Philadelphia Union at Nu Stadium in South Beach this Sunday, part of their three-game MLS homestand. After achieving a 2-0 victory against the Portland Timbers, Inter Miami currently occupies the second spot in the Eastern Conference. Conversely, the Union find themselves at the bottom of the table following a 1-1 draw with the Columbus Crew.
Match Preview: Inter Miami vs. Philadelphia Union
This weekend marks a pivotal moment for Inter Miami, as they aim for back-to-back home wins in the regular season for the first time since October 2022. Their recent success has been a positive shift for fans, especially after securing their inaugural regular-season victory at Nu Stadium. They are just two points adrift of conference leaders Nashville SC, albeit having played one match more.
During this match, Miami also has the opportunity to achieve their first consecutive clean sheets at home since early 2024. Despite this momentum, they have not yet secured full points at home against Eastern Conference rivals this year, conceding a total of seven goals in three fixtures.
Philadelphia Union’s Struggles
Year one under coach Bradley Carnell appeared promising for the Philadelphia Union. However, the current season has seen the team struggle significantly, already suffering nine defeats. This puts them at risk of extending their winless streak to eight matches, a feat not seen since the summer of 2024.
Philadelphia’s only victory this season came in a 2-1 away match against CF Montreal. They are also looking to avoid losing four consecutive away games for the first time since mid-2024. Defensively, the Union have struggled on the road, allowing multiple goals in six out of eight encounters this season.
Team News
Inter Miami faces an injury concern with midfielder Tadeo Allende likely being unavailable due to a knee injury. Star player Lionel Messi remains in fine form, having scored five goals in his last four outings, including contributions in the win against the Timbers.
On the other side, Philadelphia’s injury list includes Frankie Westfield (hip), Quinn Sullivan (knee), Japhet Sery Larsen (shoulder), Eddy Davis (hamstring), and Jesus Bueno (ankle), with Olwethu Makhanya serving a suspension.
Projected Lineups
- Inter Miami: St. Clair; Mura, Lujan, Micael, Reguilon; De Paul, Bright, Segovia; Messi, Suarez, Berterame
- Philadelphia Union: Blake; Harriel, Martinez, Mbaizo, Bender; C. Sullivan, Lukic, Jacques, Vassilev; Iloski, Damiani
In prediction, Inter Miami is favored to win with a potential scoreline of 3-1 over Philadelphia Union. The Union’s defense appears weak, and Miami’s attacking force could exploit these vulnerabilities effectively.
