Ahead of the highly anticipated clash between Toronto FC and Inter Miami, both teams are grappling with injury and suspension issues, which could significantly impact their lineups and performances. This Major League Soccer (MLS) fixture is crucial for both sides, with Inter Miami seeking to maintain momentum in the playoff race, while Toronto FC hopes to finish their difficult season on a high note.
Toronto FC has been plagued by injuries throughout the 2023 season, contributing to their struggles in the Eastern Conference. Several key players are set to miss the match, notably *Jonathan Osorio*, *Lorenzo Insigne*, *Sean Johnson*, and *Víctor Vázquez*. Osorio and Insigne are vital to Toronto’s midfield creativity and attacking threat, but their absence will force manager Terry Dunfield to rely on other options.
Insigne, the former Napoli star, has been dealing with persistent injury issues this season, limiting his impact since his arrival. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Sean Johnson remains sidelined due to a hand injury, leaving the responsibility in goal likely to fall to *Tomas Romero*. Veteran midfielder Víctor Vázquez, who has provided much-needed experience, is also out with an ongoing fitness issue.
In addition, midfielder *Brandon Servania* is still out due to a long-term injury. Toronto’s depth has been tested throughout the season, and this match will be another test of their squad resilience. With no major suspensions, Toronto can field their available players, though the team’s lack of key personnel will make the task challenging.
Inter Miami, on the other hand, will have to cope with the absence of their biggest star, *Lionel Messi*, as well as left-back *Jordi Alba*. Both players are suffering from muscle injuries and have been sidelined in recent games. Messi’s absence has been a significant blow, as he was instrumental in transforming Inter Miami’s season since joining in the summer. Despite the injury, there is hope Messi could return before the season’s end, but he is not expected to feature against Toronto.
Jordi Alba, Messi’s former Barcelona teammate, is also dealing with muscle issues, leaving Miami short in defense. Additionally, Miami is without long-term absentees *Gregore* and *Corentin Jean*, who continue their recovery.
Despite Messi’s absence, *Josef Martínez* and *Leonardo Campana* have stepped up in attack. Martínez has been a consistent goal threat, while Campana’s recent performances have added more firepower to Miami’s frontline. In midfield, *Sergio Busquets* will provide stability and vision, while young talents like *Facundo Farias* and *Benjamin Cremaschi* continue to impress.
For Toronto FC, the predicted starting XI could feature a 4-3-3 formation with *Tomas Romero* in goal, protected by a backline of *Richie Laryea*, *Mabika*, *Shane O’Neill*, and *Kobe Franklin*. The midfield will likely see *Michael Bradley* in a deeper role, alongside *Mark-Anthony Kaye* and *Kosi Thompson*. In attack, *Federico Bernardeschi*, *Deandre Kerr*, and *Prince Owusu* are expected to lead the front line
Inter Miami, likely to line up in a 4-3-3 as well, could see *Drake Callender* in goal with a back four of *DeAndre Yedlin*, *Kamal Miller*, *Serhiy Kryvtsov*, and *Tomas Avilés*. In midfield, *Sergio Busquets*, *Dixon Arroyo*, and *Benjamin Cremaschi* are expected to provide the creative spark, while *Facundo Farias*, *Josef Martínez*, and *Leonardo Campana* lead the attack
In conclusion, both teams are dealing with significant absences, but Inter Miami’s depth gives them a slight edge despite the absence of Messi and Alba. Toronto, on the other hand, will be hoping their remaining players can pull off an upset at home.
