Inter Miami Aims to Climb East Standings Against D.C. United

Inter Miami is set to host D.C. United on Saturday night as the club strives to improve its position in the Eastern Conference standings. With reports confirming that Lionel Messi has agreed to a multi-year contract extension, the team can focus on its performance following months of speculation regarding the star player’s future. According to both ESPN and the Miami Herald, the deal is expected to be finalized later this month, allowing the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner to conclude his career in South Florida.

Manager Javier Mascherano addressed the media on Friday, expressing hope for the swift announcement of Messi’s extension. “I’m not going to speak about hypotheticals, and I’m certainly not the one who should make that announcement,” he stated, as reported by Goal.com. “Hopefully it happens soon. It would be fantastic news not only for the club but for MLS and soccer in the United States as a whole.”

This anticipated news alleviates concerns for Miami, which currently sits in sixth place in the Eastern Conference with a record of 14 wins, 6 losses, and 7 draws, accumulating 49 points. The team is just eight points behind conference leaders Philadelphia and possesses three matches in hand, presenting an opportunity to ascend the standings.

Miami recently secured a significant home victory, defeating Seattle 3-1 on Tuesday night. Messi played a pivotal role in this match, assisting the opening goal and scoring the second. With a remarkable tally of 20 goals and 11 assists this season, he trails only Sam Surridge of Nashville for the MLS goals lead. He is also one contribution behind Anders Dreyer of San Diego, who has 14 goals and 18 assists.

On the other hand, D.C. United enters the match with a record of 5 wins, 15 losses, and 10 draws, totaling just 25 points. The team has already been eliminated from playoff contention but has shown signs of improvement under new manager Rene Weiler. Since taking over in mid-August, Weiler has led the team to three draws and one win in four matches.

In their most recent game, D.C. United fought hard to secure a 1-1 draw against Orlando City, with Jackson Hopkins finding the net for the third time since Weiler’s appointment. Weiler anticipates a challenging encounter against Miami. “Of course it will be a big challenge, and maybe a benchmark to see how far the players are now, to compare them with the players of Miami,” he commented. “But we have to enjoy at the same time the game, because it’s a pleasure to play against them in their big stadium.”

As the match approaches, both teams are under pressure to secure points for differing reasons. For Inter Miami, it is a chance to solidify their playoff aspirations, while D.C. United aims to build on their recent performances and finish the season on a high note. The encounter promises to be a compelling showdown on the pitch.