Inter Miami enters the match against D.C. United as the reigning 2025 MLS Cup winners. Following a challenging start to the 2026 season, where they lost their opening match 3-0 to LAFC, the team managed to secure a victory against Orlando City SC, winning 4-2. This win has placed them in seventh place in the Eastern Conference, with three points after two fixtures. Lionel Messi, who has been a pivotal player for the team, has scored two goals in the season so far, bringing his career total to 898 goals.
Breaking Development
The upcoming match on March 7, 2026, at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore is particularly significant for Messi, as he is just one goal away from reaching the remarkable milestone of 900 career goals. In the last match against Orlando City, Messi scored two goals, showcasing his continued prowess on the field. His participation in the most recent training session has further fueled expectations that he will be in the starting lineup against D.C. United.
Rene Weiler, the head coach of D.C. United, has acknowledged the challenge posed by Messi, stating, “The key is not giving him space and defending well as a team.” This highlights the importance of team strategy in containing one of the greatest players in soccer history. D.C. United, having won their opening match 1-0 against Philadelphia Union but subsequently losing 1-0 to Austin FC, will be looking to bounce back and secure a crucial win against Inter Miami.
Looking Ahead
Observers are keenly anticipating how the match will unfold, particularly with Messi’s potential to make history. As he approaches this milestone, the atmosphere surrounding the match is expected to be electric. The confirmed lineups for both teams indicate that Messi will be joined by German Berterame for Inter Miami, while D.C. United will feature Sean Johnson and Gabriel Pirani. The match is set to be a key moment in the early stages of the 2026 MLS season, and fans are eager to see if Messi can achieve his 900th goal.