Inter Miami host DC United in a crucial Eastern Conference clash at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on (Saturday, September 20).

The Herons, sitting sixth in the standings with 49 points from 27 matches (14W-6L-7D), are pushing for a strong finish to secure a playoff spot and potentially challenge for the Supporters' Shield, eight points behind leaders Philadelphia Union but with three games in hand.

Lionel Messi's form remains pivotal, having notched 20 goals in 21 appearances this season, marking back-to-back 20-goal campaigns -- the fifth player in MLS history to achieve this. Inter Miami enter on the back of a morale-boosting 3-1 midweek win over Seattle Sounders in MLS action, with Messi and Jordi Alba scoring before halftime. Their attack has been prolific, contributing 57 goals league-wide, the most in MLS, though defensive lapses have seen seven conceded in the last three games across competitions.