Toronto FC and Inter Miami are set to clash in a crucial MLS match on Saturday, October 5, at 4 p.m. ET at BMO Field in Toronto. The match is filled with significant implications for both teams, despite Inter Miami having already clinched the MLS Supporters’ Shield with a 3-2 win over Columbus Crew earlier this week.
Lionel Messi’s availability for the match is still uncertain. Inter Miami coach Tata Martino will announce the starting lineup about an hour before the match, which will reveal whether Messi will start or come off the bench. Messi has been recovering from a Copa America right ankle injury and has played in five games since his return, most recently scoring two goals against Columbus.
For Toronto FC, this match is their final game of the regular season, and they are clinging to the ninth and final playoff spot in the MLS Eastern Conference. Toronto has 37 points, tied with Philadelphia and D.C. United, but holds the tiebreaker edge. However, they face a tough challenge without key players like Federico Bernardeschi, who is suspended, and Lorenzo Insigne, who is out with a hamstring injury.
Inter Miami, on the other hand, needs to win both of their remaining games to set the MLS record with 74 points in a season. Despite having secured the top spot, the team is motivated to achieve this record and will be cautious with Messi’s minutes to ensure his health, especially with World Cup qualifying matches upcoming for Argentina.
The match will be available for live stream on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV, and fans can follow live updates from various sports outlets. The stakes are high, with Toronto fighting for a playoff spot and Inter Miami aiming for a historic points record).
