Inter Miami vs Chicago Fire: Preview, How to Watch It on TV, & Prediction Lineups | OneFootball

The MLS returns with another exciting slate of matches tonight. Last week marked the start of the second half of the regular season with El Tráfico, Portland Timbers' dominant win over the Seattle Sounders, Nashville SC's victory, and CF Montréal's draw against Toronto FC.

Now, attention shifts to one of the most anticipated matchups of the season: Inter Miami vs. the Chicago Fire, featuring a showdown between Lionel Messi and Robert Lewandowski.

Both teams will be dealing with significant absences for this matchup. On Inter Miami's side, players such as Tadeo Allende, David Ayala, Rodrigo De Paul, Maximiliano Falcón, Gonzalo Luján, Lionel Messi, Santiago Morales, and Alexander Shaw will be missing.

On the other hand, the Chicago Fire’s list has Christopher Cupps, André Franco, and Chris Mueller, while Mbekezeli Mbokazi is listed as questionable.

With this being said, join us for this Inter Miami vs. Chicago Fire preview. In this article, we will discuss the latest news, provide information on how to watch the game, and present the predicted formation.

Inter Miami vs Chicago Fire: Preview, How to Watch It on TV, & Prediction Lineups

May 23, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Fire FC defender Andrew Gutman (15) kicks the ball against the Toronto FC during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Predicted lineups for the Herons vs the Fire

Inter Miami:

Chicago Fire:

Where to watch Inter Miami vs Chicago Fire

The encounter between these two teams will start at 7:30 p.m. at Nu Stadium in Miami.

This match is available to watch live on Apple TV. Remember, all MLS games can only be watched through Apple TV.

Score Prediction

On paper, this matchup loses some of its appeal with Lionel Messi unavailable for what would have been Robert Lewandowski's MLS debut.

Without their captain, Inter Miami faces a much tougher challenge in maintaining its attacking form, as Messi currently leads the team in both goals and assists.

His absence significantly reduces Miami's offensive threat.

Meanwhile, Chicago Fire enters the match sitting third in the Eastern Conference and will look to rely on Lewandowski's experience to unsettle Inter Miami's defense and convert its chances into goals.

However, the veteran striker matchup is a must-watch, as Suarez and Lewandowski have battled for many years in the best clubs in Europe.