Messi, Suárez, and Miami Eye Momentum Against Struggling Columbus
Hey everyone, let’s talk about one of the most intriguing matchups in this weekend's MLS action—Inter Miami versus Columbus Crew. It’s more than just a regular league game. This is a meeting of the last two Leagues Cup champions—Miami in 2023 and Columbus in 2024—and both teams come in with a lot to prove.
Inter Miami, fresh off a 4-2 win over CF Montréal, will be playing with renewed confidence. That victory was exactly what they needed after a rough stretch. Messi and Suárez both bagged braces—huge for a squad looking to recapture early-season form. Messi not only hit two, but with his goal and assist tally now at 50 contributions in MLS regular season play, he’s once again proven why he’s the face of this team. And for Suárez, those goals were his third and fourth this season, a welcome spark after some quiet outings.
Despite that midweek high, Miami still faces major concerns in defense. They’re missing key players like Jordi Alba, Gonzalo Luján, and Yannick Bright—all out due to injuries. The re-signing of goalkeeper Óscar Ustari brings a little stability, but let’s be real, their backline is still vulnerable.
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Columbus Crew, meanwhile, are looking for answers. They haven’t won in their last five and are coming off a 2-2 draw against Nashville. It’s not for lack of firepower though—Diego Rossi and Daniel Gazdag are a dangerous duo up front. Rossi has racked up eight goals and eight assists already this season, and the Crew actually outplayed Miami in their last meeting despite falling 1-0.
But what makes this clash so compelling is that both teams are just two points apart in the standings. Miami sits sixth in the Eastern Conference with 26 points, while Columbus is fourth with 28. A win for either side could dramatically shift the table, especially for Miami, who could jump to as high as third depending on other results.
One big question mark for Columbus is in goal. With Patrick Schulte sidelined, Nicholas Hagen steps in, and that could open the door for more Messi-Suárez magic. That said, Columbus has one of the better defensive records in the East, despite not having a clean sheet in 11 games.
Prediction? I think this one ends in a draw—2-2. Miami’s attack is too hot right now, but their defensive frailty could give Columbus the openings they need. Either way, expect goals, drama, and a lot of flair at Chase Stadium.
Kickoff is 7:30 p.m. ET this Saturday in Fort Lauderdale, and if you’re not already locked into the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, now’s a good time. This is one you don’t want to miss.
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