Lionel Messi starts: Confirmed lineups for Inter Miami vs DC United in MLS Matchday 31

Inter Miami are entering the decisive stretch of the 2025 season. They have just six matches remaining in the regular season of Major League Soccer, making every game crucial. This Saturday, the Herons will take on DC United at Chase Stadium, and all eyes are on Lionel Messi.

Javier Mascherano’s team has shown inconsistent form lately, alternating between dominant wins and tough losses, like last week’s defeat against Charlotte FC. However, that hasn’t prevented them from staying in the Eastern Conference playoff zone.

Currently, they sit in sixth place in the standings with 49 points, eight behind leaders Philadelphia Union but with three games in hand. That means they still have a shot at competing for the Supporters’ Shield if they can put together a winning streak in the final stretch of the MLS.

DC United are facing a completely different reality. They’ve been one of the worst-performing teams this season, with just 25 points from 30 matches. Only CF Montreal and LA Galaxy have had worse records this year in MLS. Already out of playoff contention in the East, the Black-and-Red will try to pull off an upset this Saturday at Chase Stadium.

Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring the team’s second goal with teammate Jordi Alba during the MLS match between Inter Miami CF and Seattle Sounders FC.

Given how important Saturday’s match is for Inter Miami, head coach Javier Mascherano will field his strongest possible lineup. That obviously includes Lionel Messi.

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