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Charlotte FC vs Inter Miami preview: Team news, lineups, prediction as Messi pursues 900th goal

Leo Messi playing for Inter Miami

Leo Messi is closing in on 900 career goals

Preview, form guide, head-to-head record, team news and full broadcast details for Charlotte FC vs Inter Miami in the MLS clash at Bank of America Stadium

Charlotte FC and Inter Miami meet at Bank of America Stadium in Major League Soccer on Saturday, March 14, in a high-stakes Matchday 4 showdown in the Eastern Conference.

The matchup features a fascinating clash of styles, as Dean Smith’s disciplined, home-dominant Charlotte side faces Javier Mascherano’s star-studded Inter Miami, who arrive as the defending MLS Cup champions.

It might also prove to be a historic duel for Leo Messi, who is one goal shy from reaching the 900 goals mark after netting his 899th in a 2-1 win over DC United last weekend.

The early-season stakes are significant as both teams look to consolidate their positions in a crowded table. Inter Miami currently sit in third place in the Eastern Conference after a resilient start to 2026, while Charlotte moved up to sixth following a convincing home win last weekend.

With Bank of America Stadium expected to host another massive crowd, Charlotte will aim to use their home-field advantage to derail a Miami team who have quickly found its rhythm.

Charlotte FC’s Bank of America Stadium

Charlotte FC vs Inter Miami results

Charlotte FC recent form: DLW

Inter Miami recent form: LWWD

Charlotte FC enter the match with momentum after securing their first win of the 2026 campaign, a 3-1 victory over Austin FC. Prior to that, they struggled on the road, suffering a 3–0 defeat to the LA Galaxy and playing out a 1-1 draw with St. Louis City.

Under Dean Smith, Charlotte has been remarkably difficult to beat in North Carolina, losing just once at Bank of America Stadium in the regular season since last May.

Inter Miami head into this fixture in dominant form, having won their last two MLS matches against Florida rivals Orlando City (4–2) and DC United (2–1). Their last official game took place on Wednesday against Nashville in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup round of 16, with Inter Miami securing a 0-0 draw away from home.

Charlotte FC vs Inter Miami H2H

The head-to-head history between these two clubs is remarkably balanced, though Charlotte have traditionally held the upper hand in this specific venue. In their nine all-time meetings, Inter Miami hold a narrow edge with four wins to Charlotte’s three, with two draws.

However, Charlotte have won three of the four domestic meetings held in North Carolina, including a commanding 3–0 triumph in this exact fixture last year.

Charlotte FC vs Inter Miami team news

For Dean Smith’s side, the roster has been bolstered by several high-profile additions. While centre-back Henry Kessler remains sidelined due to injury, the backline is led by USMNT veteran Tim Ream.

The attack is spearheaded by former Crystal Palace legend Wilfried Zaha and Pep Biel, the latter of whom starred with two goals in the win over Austin.

Midfielder Luca de la Torre has also integrated quickly into the starting XI following his move from Celta Vigo.

For Javier Mascherano’s side, the primary focus is the fitness of his veteran stars. Messi is expected to start after netting the match-winner against DC United, though his minutes are being monitored ahead of Champions Cup commitments.

Luis Suárez is “100 percent recovered” according to Mascherano and is expected to feature after being an unused substitute midweek, while Maxi Falcón is an injury doubt.

Leo Messi and Luis Suarez are reunited with Inter Miami

Charlotte FC vs Inter Miami predicted line-ups

Charlotte FC predicted line‑up (4-2-3-1): Kahlina; Byrne, Agyemang, Ream, Toffolo; Westwood, De La Torre; Vargas, Biel, Zaha; Toklomati

Inter Miami predicted line‑up (4-2-3-1): St. Clair; Mura, Luján, Micael, Allen; Bright, De Paul; Segovia, Messi, Silvetti; Suárez

Charlotte FC vs Inter Miami score prediction

A slow start to the season has seen Charlotte conceded at least once in each of their first three MLS matches.

Meanwhile, Inter Miami have scored six goals in their last two road clashes, with Messi pursuing his 900th goal against a defence in search of cohesion.

Inter Miami didn’t impress midweek away at Nashville, but have what it takes to grab a third straight league victory.

Score prediction: 1-2

Where to watch Charlotte FC vs Inter Miami 

For viewers in the United States, the Charlotte FC vs Inter Miami match is scheduled for Saturday, March 14, with exclusive streaming available on the Apple TV app via the MLS Season Pass. Kick-off is set for 19:30 ET / 16:30 PT.

In the United Kingdom, fans can watch the match live on Apple TV starting at 23:30 GMT. The broadcast is available to all MLS Season Pass subscribers with no regional blackouts.

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