Is Lionel Messi playing today? Inter Miami vs. Houston Dynamo lineup for MLS Matchday 2
Inter Miami confronts Houston Dynamo in MLS Matchday 2 without Lionel Messi, as the team looks to manage his physical condition ahead of upcoming games. Can Miami maintain their unbeaten streak without their star player?
Inter Miami is set face to Houston Dynamo on round 2 of the 2025 MLS season, but the absence of Lionel Messi has become the focal point of the match. Messi, who has played in all eight of Miami's games this year, will miss this contest to rest and manage his physical condition. Houston Dynamo, struggling with just one win this competition, will look to capitalize on Messi's omission as they aim to extend their perfect record against Inter Miami.
While Messi's leave is a blow to Miami, it could provide the Orange Crush with an opportunity to turn their campaign around. Houston Dynamo has won all three of their previous meetings with Inter Miami, and with The GOAT missing, they will look to secure another win to boost their confidence. The encounter is critical for both teams, with the Dynamo hoping to break their losing streak and Miami looking to continue their unbeaten run.
Why is Messi missing the match against Houston Dynamo?
Messi’s lack from this clash comes after a series of fixtures played in quick succession. After eight consecutive appearances in 2025, including one just six days ago, the decision was made by Javier Mascherano to rest Messi (37) and manage his physical condition. This absence could disrupt Miami’s offensive flow, but it also opens the door for other key members like Robert Taylor and Benjamin Cremaschi to step up.
Despite omitting the game, Lio could return to action in the upcoming CONCACAF Champions Cup against Cavalier FC on March 6. This careful management of his playing time is aimed at preserving his health and extending his career while minimizing the risk of injury, which Messi has previously dealt with the Herons Vice City.
What are the predicted lineups for the Inter Miami vs. Houston Dynamo?
With Messi’s absence, Inter Miami is adjusting their squad to face Houston Dynamo. Without their star forward, coach Javier Mascherano will rely on other players to take charge on the field. Houston Dynamo will look to take advantage of Messi’s missing, fielding their usual lineup in hopes of securing a much-needed victory.
- Inter Miami Predicted Lineup (4-4-2): Oscar Ustari; Ian Fray, Noah Allen, Maximiliano Falcón, Jordi Alba; Tadeo Allende, Federico Redondo, Sergio Busquets, Telasco Segovia; Robert Taylor, Luis Suárez
- Houston Dynamo Predicted Lineup (4-3-3): Andrew Tarbell; Griffin Dorsey, Ethan Bartlow, Femi Awodesu, Daniel Steres; Sebastian Kowalczyk, Jose Artur, Jack McGlynn, Aliyu Ibrahim; Ezequiel Ponce, Amine Bassi