ORLANDO, Fla. – Lionel Messi is set to potentially make his first visit wearing the Inter Miami CF crest to the City Beautiful on Wednesday to take on Orlando City SC.
The 2022 World Cup winner and global soccer superstar did not play in last year’s game in Orlando due to an injury.
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History might repeat itself for Messi because the Argentinian forward is doubtful for Wednesday’s game. Messi suffered a left knee injury in Sunday’s match against Montreal. On Tuesday, Inter Miami’s assistant head coach Javier Morales said Messi will be reevaluated and see how he feels before Wednesday’s match in Orlando.
With Messi’s status in doubt, here are five things to know as Inter Miami comes to town to take on Orlando City:
1. Messi’s first game in INTER&Co Stadium
As mentioned before, Messi did not make it to last year’s trip to Orlando with the Inter Miami team. Many fans were disappointed, and ticket prices dropped as a result. Orlando City wound up playing to a 1-1 draw with Inter Miami.
2. Don’t have tickets but want one? Be prepared to pay to see Messi play
With the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner potentially coming to Orlando, tickets are a premium. According to Ticketmaster, the cheapest resale ticket is in the Supporter’s Section at $120. The most expensive ticket is currently $3,500, located right next to the Inter Miami bench.
3. Inter Miami red hot to start 2024 season
Messi and company are firing on all cylinders coming into Wednesday’s match. The team is at the top of the MLS standings with 27 points and eight wins through 13 games. Messi has 10 goals and 12 assists in nine games this season. He currently leads the MLS in assists.
4. Orlando City’s tough start in 2024
On the other side, Orlando City hasn’t had the strongest start to the season. The team is 11th in the Eastern Conference, with three wins and 12 points through 11 games. The Lions are coming off a 3-2 win in Philadelphia last weekend.
5. History between Orlando and Miami
Orlando City has not lost to Inter Miami when playing at home. The all-time series record is at a stalemate with five wins for Orlando, five wins for Miami and three draws. The most recent meeting between the two teams was in March. Messi scored twice in a 5-0 rout over Orlando City.