Inter Miami CF is set to face the Columbus Crew tonight at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field in MLS Matchday 28, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. ET.
Why it matters: This match carries major implications for both teams in the Eastern Conference standings. Inter Miami is fighting for a top-four position to secure home-field advantage in the playoffs, whereas Columbus Crew is trying to climb out of the 14th spot.
Inter Miami currently sits third in the Eastern Conference with 46 points, aiming to solidify their playoff position.
Columbus Crew is struggling at 14th with 26 points from 26 matches, needing a strong performance to boost their chances.
The match is particularly important as both teams approach the final stretch of the regular season.
Driving the news: The match comes after both teams displayed contrasting recent performances. Inter Miami recently lifted the Campeones Cup and is coming off a 2-2 draw against San Diego FC.
In their last match, Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez scored for Miami, with Messi reaching 20 goals for the season.
Columbus Crew ended a two-game losing streak with a 2-0 victory over CF Montreal, providing momentum going into this matchup.
Inter Miami has several players unavailable due to international duty, but Messi is expected to lead the attack.
Key facts:
Match date: September 27, 2026.
Kickoff time: 7:00 PM ET.
Venue: ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, Columbus, Ohio.
Broadcast: Available exclusively on Apple TV in the United States.
State of play: The starting lineups for both teams highlight key players who could impact the game significantly.
Inter Miami's lineup features GK Rocco Ríos Novo; defenders Gonzalo Luján, Casemiro, Micael; midfielders Facundo Mura, Rodrigo De Paul, Yannick Bright, Sergio Reguilón; forwards Leo Messi (captain), Luis Suárez, Daniel Pinter.
Columbus Crew's lineup includes GK Patrick Schulte; defenders Mohamed Farsi, Sean Zawadzki (captain), Eric Bailly, Malte Amundsen; midfielders Anass Zaroury, Dylan Chambost, Taha Habroune, Santiago Rodríguez; forwards Brais Méndez, Josef Martínez.
The big picture: Both teams have different motivations driving their performances this season.
Inter Miami is looking to capitalize on Messi's scoring prowess, as he has scored 20 goals and provided 13 assists in 23 appearances this season.
Columbus Crew is attempting to close the gap in the standings and improve their playoff chances, especially after their recent victory.
The Crew's last-minute surge could be a turning point for their campaign if they can maintain momentum against a strong Miami side.
What they're saying: Coaches and players are aware of the stakes involved in this match.
Inter Miami head coach Kily González emphasized the importance of securing points to maintain their playoff position.
Columbus Crew coach Laurent Courtois expressed that a win against the reigning MLS champions would be a massive boost for his team's morale.
Fans are eager to see Messi in action, with many arriving early at the stadium to support their team.
By the numbers: Key statistics from both teams provide insight into their current form.
Inter Miami has an average possession rate of 56.2% in recent matches, indicating their control in midfield.
Columbus Crew has taken 14 shots in their last match against Miami, with 6 on target, demonstrating their attacking intent.
Miami's defense will need to remain vigilant, as Columbus has shown they can capitalize on set pieces, earning 9 corners in their previous match.
What's next: After this match, both teams will continue to navigate the busy MLS schedule.
Inter Miami will look to build on their performance as they aim for a favorable playoff position.
Columbus Crew needs to secure more points to avoid falling behind in the standings.
The outcome of this match could significantly influence the playoff race in the Eastern Conference.
As fans gather at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, the atmosphere is electric with anticipation for what will likely be an exciting clash between two teams with everything to play for.