A highly anticipated clash awaits as FC Cincinnati takes on Inter Miami in a top-of-the-table showdown in the Eastern Conference of Major League Soccer (MLS).
The game, set to take place at TQL Stadium, will be crucial in the race for the Supporters' Shield. This article delves into the prediction, team form, news, and lineups for the Cincinnati vs Inter Miami match.
Match Preview
Overview
FC Cincinnati, currently in second place, hosts league leaders Inter Miami. Both teams have been in exceptional form, making this encounter a potential decider in the race for the top spot.
Cincinnati's recent 3-2 victory over DC United and Miami's narrow 2-1 win against Charlotte FC set the stage for an intense battle.
Recent Form
FC Cincinnati
Cincinnati has been impressive this season, particularly on the road. However, their home form has been inconsistent, with two losses in their last three home games.
Despite this, they have managed to win four of their previous five league matches, showcasing their resilience.
Their overall record stands at 45 points from 21 games, matching their performance from their Supporters' Shield-winning season in 2023.
Inter Miami
Inter Miami has been a formidable force, especially in tight situations. They have secured points in 15 of their last 16 regular-season games, with their only defeat coming against Atlanta United in May.
Notably, Miami has a knack for late goals, often scoring in the final minutes to secure wins or draws.
With 50 goals scored this season, they lead the league in this statistic, and a win on Saturday would mark their 15th league victory, setting a new club record.
Team News
FC Cincinnati
Cincinnati will be without several key players. Malik Pinto and Nick Hagglund are sidelined with ankle and leg injuries, respectively.
Corey Baird missed the last match due to a hip issue, and Matt Miazga is out for the season with a severe leg injury.
Pavel Bucha, who scored twice in their recent match, and Kevin Kelsy, who netted his fifth goal of the season, will be crucial for Cincinnati's attack.
Inter Miami
Inter Miami faces its own injury concerns. Marcelo Weigandt is doubtful due to a hamstring strain, while Nicolas Freire and Facundo Farias are dealing with ACL injuries.
Additionally, stars Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez will be unavailable as they are participating in the Copa America.
However, Matias Rojas is expected to be available after Paraguay's exit from the tournament. Robert Taylor, who scored his fourth MLS goal recently, and Benjamin Cremaschi, who secured the win with a late goal, will be key players for Miami.
Predicted Lineups
FC Cincinnati Celentano; Keller, Robinson, Murphy; Orellano, Nwobodo, Bucha, Yedlin; Acosta; Kelsy, Santos
Inter Miami Callender; Weigandt, Aviles, Kryvtsov, Alba; Busquets; Gressel, Cremaschi, Rojas, Taylor; Campana
Prediction
This match promises to be a tight contest between two top teams.
Inter Miami has shown they can win even without their star players, but Cincinnati's home advantage and the presence of playmaker Luciano Acosta could tip the balance in their favour.
Given their recent form and the stakes, a narrow victory for Cincinnati seems likely.
Our Prediction: FC Cincinnati 3-2 Inter Miami
Inter Miami 
Cincinnati 
