Messi and Inter Miami Face Challenges Against San Jose Earthquakes

San Jose, California — Inter Miami is gearing up to face the San Jose Earthquakes on Wednesday, May 14, after a tough 4-1 loss to Minnesota United last weekend. Despite Lionel Messi‘s recent scoring, the Herons continue to struggle against stronger opponents. Missing star Luis Suarez in their last match exposed Miami’s lack of depth in attack, allowing Minnesota to dominate the game.

San Jose, led by coach Bruce Arena, presents a different challenge. With 26 goals this season, the Earthquakes have the highest goal tally in the league but have conceded 20 goals, a worry for the team. Arena’s strategy has focused on outscoring rivals in high-scoring matches, landing them above the playoff line.

This fixture marks only the second encounter between these two teams, the first having ended with a Miami victory in March 2022. Wednesday’s match will be Messi’s first visit to San Jose in an Inter Miami jersey, stirring excitement among local fans.

Expectations are high for Miami, especially after the departure of coach Tata Martino due to playoff failure. Javier Mascherano, who is in his first season, is feeling pressure to improve results as Miami has not been performing well against playoff-caliber teams. After the loss to Minnesota, Mascherano attributed the team’s vulnerability in defense to tactical issues, stating, “If the players’ performance drops, the responsibility is entirely mine.”

Miami has allowed 12 goals in their last three matches, raising concerns about their defensive capabilities. Without Luis Suarez, the team needs other players to step up. Messi has been a consistent scorer, but Miami will need more collective effort to succeed in this match.

Cristian Arango of the Earthquakes, who has registered eight goals and one assist this season, is also eager to prove himself against Miami. The competition will be intense, with fans expecting an electrifying atmosphere at PayPal Park.

Both coaches have yet to reveal their starting lineups, but injuries have sidelined key players on both sides. Miami’s David Ruiz and Baltasar Rodriguez, as well as San Jose’s Bruno Wilson, are not expected to participate. The match kicks off at 7:30 p.m. PT/10:30 p.m. ET.