Preview: Inter Miami vs Austin FC - prediction, team news, lineups

Inter Miami CF are set to mark a historic milestone on Saturday when they play their first match at the newly opened Nu Stadium against Austin FC, ushering in a new era for the club in Major League Soccer.

Although the season is still in its early stages with only five matches played, Inter Miami have looked more balanced this campaign than in previous ones, while their visitors have struggled in the opening fixtures.

Match preview

The move represents a major step forward in Inter Miami’s relatively short history, as the club transitions into a permanent, purpose-built home designed to reflect their rapid growth and global appeal since joining MLS in 2020.

The significance of the new stadium goes beyond infrastructure, with The Herons having played their home matches at Chase Stadium since their inception while gradually building their long-term identity.

The opening of Nu Stadium symbolises stability, ambition, and the club’s evolution into one of the most talked-about teams in world football, with increased seating capacity, modern facilities, and a vibrant matchday environment expected to further strengthen Inter Miami’s growing fan base and commercial appeal.

One of the standout features of the new stadium is the dedicated Leo Messi Stand, named after club captain Lionel Messi, a tribute that reflects his enormous influence since arriving in Miami and is expected to become a focal point for supporters while symbolising the club’s ambition to remain competitive at the highest level.

Heading into the historic opener, Inter Miami’s early MLS form has been promising, with three wins, one draw and one defeat from five matches, scoring nine goals and conceding eight to sit fifth in the Eastern Conference as they aim to build early momentum.

Interestingly, this will be Inter Miami’s first home match of the 2026-27 MLS season, and after losing their opening fixture 3-0 to Los Angeles FC, Javier Mascherano’s side responded impressively, culminating in a 3-2 victory over New York City FC in their final match before the international break.

Saturday’s fixture therefore carries added importance beyond just three points, as the excitement surrounding the new stadium and the unveiling of the Leo Messi Stand will see Inter Miami eager to deliver a memorable performance to mark the occasion.

© Imago

Austin travel to face Inter Miami CF on Saturday as the first visiting team at Nu Stadium, becoming the inaugural opponents at Miami’s brand-new home.

Prior to the international break, Austin secured a goalless draw against LAFC, becoming the first team this season to shut out the current Western Conference leaders.

The Verde and Black will now look to claim a statement victory against the reigning MLS Cup champions and Lionel Messi as Inter Miami open their new stadium.

Austin and Miami have met twice previously, with Austin winning 5-1 in 2022 before the sides played out a 1-1 draw in 2023.

Nico Estevez’s side head to South Florida determined to remain unbeaten against Inter Miami while also preparing for a busy April schedule that includes five league matches and at least one U.S. Open Cup fixture.

Inter Miami Major League Soccer form:

Inter Miami form (all competitions):

Austin FC Major League Soccer form:

Team News

© Imago

The major talking point for Inter Miami is Lionel Messi’s absence from training ahead of Saturday, although Javier Mascherano confirmed that the decision was planned to allow the Argentine additional recovery time following the international break.

Facundo Mura trained separately on Thursday and could miss Saturday’s contest, with Ian Fray likely to start at right-back if required.

Maximiliano Falcon and Sergio Reguilon both returned to full training on Thursday after recovering from injuries and are available for selection.

For the visitors, four players have been ruled out, including Dani Pereira with a hamstring injury, Robert Taylor and Brandon Vazquez with knee problems, and Owen Wolff with a sports hernia.

Estevez is also monitoring the fitness of winger Jayden Nelson, who is battling a hamstring issue and remains doubtful for the trip to Miami.

Inter Miami possible starting lineup:

St. Clair; Fray, Lujan, Silva, Reguilon; De Paul, Bright; Silvetti, Segovia, Messi; Allende

Austin FC possible starting lineup:

Stuver; Gallagher, Svatok, Hines-Ike, Bell; Sanchez, Dubersarsky, Rosales, Torres; Uzuni, Ramirez

We say: Inter Miami 3-1 Austin FC

The first home game of the season in a brand-new stadium is expected to create a celebratory atmosphere for Inter Miami, and that feel-good factor could translate into a strong performance on the pitch.

Austin have lost both of their away matches this season and, with this being their first visit to Nu Stadium, their struggles on the road could continue, which is why we are backing Inter Miami to celebrate the occasion with all three points.

For data analysis of the most likely results, scorelines and more for this match please click here.