Inter Miami to Rest Key Players in MLS Showdown Against Toronto FC

Inter Miami has decided to rest several key players, including star forward Lionel Messi, for their upcoming match against Toronto FC on Saturday, as reported by USA TODAY Sports. The game, which commences at 4 p.m. ET, will see Miami taking the field without Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and goalkeeper Drake Callender, as they have already secured the MLS Supporters’ Shield and the No. 1 overall seed for the MLS Cup playoffs.

Despite resting their starters, there remains a possibility that Messi might make an appearance from the bench, affording fans in Toronto a glimpse of the Argentine World Cup winner. Inter Miami, having clinched the Supporters’ Shield following their recent game, is eyeing the MLS points record, necessitating victories in their last two matches to reach 74 points this season.

Toronto FC, meanwhile, is poised for a critical match, as they currently occupy the ninth and final playoff position in the Eastern Conference. With the stakes high, there is much to play for in this matchup for both clubs. Fans can follow the action via live streaming options provided, with updates being covered extensively by USA TODAY Sports.

The strategic decision to rest Messi is also influenced by his upcoming commitment to Argentina for World Cup qualifying matches against Venezuela on October 10 and Bolivia on October 15. Inter Miami’s head coach Tata Martino remarked, “I understand people’s expectations and the fact of coming to see him. Even so, we will try to decide the best for his health fundamentally.”

The MLS season will close with Inter Miami facing a record-setting scenario, hosting their final game against a team that previously set the points record in 2021 with 73 points. While Inter Miami enjoys their secured position, Toronto FC must navigate their playoff aspirations without key players Lorenzo Insigne and the suspended Federico Bernardeschi, crucially impacting their attacking options.

As Inter Miami prepares for what could be a historic end to the season, focus remains on the performance of their star roster, affording tactical flexibility and resting key players in anticipation of grueling upcoming fixtures.