Inter Miami CF's 4-1 victory against New York Red Bulls in MLS play last Saturday was a breath of fresh air after a crushing 5-1 CONCACAF Champions Cup defeat to Vancouver Whitecaps. The bounce-back win appeared to be a huge relief for everyone in the squad — except captain Lionel Messi.

Lionel Messi scored but Inter Miami suffered a comprehensive 4-1 defeat by Major League Soccer rivals Minnesota United. Goals from Bongokuhle Hlongwane just after the half-hour and Anthony Markanich on the stroke of half-time set Miami on the path to a fourth defeat in their last five matches in all competitions.

After getting things back on track with a victory over the New York Red Bulls, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami will begin a road trip that sees them face one of the best teams in the Western Conference, Minnesota United. The Loons have quietly risen to second in the conference behind a stout defense that will be pushed to the limits facing the Herons.