Inter Miami have not been a good team without Lionel Messi this season, and are more reliant on him than ever. Meanwhile, they are also down to unnatural left backs, allowing Evander and FC Cincinnati to take advantage out wide, giving them the favorite tag heading into the clash.

FC Cincinnati is preparing for a critical match against Inter Miami after defeating them last week. But this match could look different.

FC Cincinnati will take the pitch Saturday against Inter Miami, but the status of Miami's most notable player is still up in the air after he no-showed MLS All-Star festivities.

MLS chief addresses Messi's All-Star absence, citing schedule strain and league rules amid growing backlash and fan frustration.

Phillips echoed that sentiment, saying he booed Messi because his season ticket seats are just a couple of rows from the field in the First Financial Club. He said he remembers lightheartedly heckling former New York Red Bulls defender, John Tolkin, when FC Cincinnati were Wooden Spoon contenders, prompting a chuckle from the American.