Florida rivals Orlando City and Inter Miami lock horns in what has become one of the MLS’s most compelling regional showdowns, aptly dubbed the “Clásico del Sol.” These clubs have collided 16 times: Orlando City leads with seven victories, while Inter Miami has managed five, with four ending in draws Inter Miami last beat Orlando in March 2024 with a thumping 5–0 result, making this tonight’s clash a high-stakes rematch
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When & Where It Kicks Off
The rematch unfolds at Exploria Stadium. The broadcast schedule includes both domestic and global options:
- In the U.S., watch live on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV—or catch select games on Fox and Fox Deportes, with streaming available on FuboTV and Fox Sports platforms
- Globally, Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass handles streaming in most regions, including Pakistan
Notably, Xfinity subscribers in the U.S. can now access Sunday Night Soccer via the MLS Season Pass for free through their X1 channel guide and the Xfinity Stream
Team News & Messi Update
The biggest development: Lionel Messi will not play, as coach Javier Mascherano prefers caution due to his ongoing recovery from a Leagues Cup injury . His absence leaves a void in Miami’s attack and intensifies pressure. Fafà Picault commented on Messi’s impact, noting the challenge of adapting without a superstar on the field
These are the expected lineups for tonight’s match
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Inter Miami (4–3–3)
- Key names: Callender (GK), Yedlin, Kryvtsov, Miller, Robinson in defense; Cremaschi, Busquets, Arroyo in midfield; Messi out, so look for Martinez, Taylor, and possibly De Paul or Suárez to spark the attack
How to Watch Live
Streaming (global):
- MLS Season Pass via Apple TV — the most consistent way to catch the action across regions.
In the U.S.:
- FOX and FOX Deportes broadcast the match.
- Stream via MLS Season Pass, FuboTV, or Xfinity (if you’re a subscriber)
6. Rivalry Context & What to Expect
This showdown means more than points. Inter Miami must overcome a psychological hurdle after failing to beat Orlando since March 2024. Orlando, on the other hand, enters this fixture with momentum and confidence. Without Messi, Miami must rely on creativity and leadership from the likes of Martínez and De Paul. Expect intensity, high stakes, and a tactical battle between Florida’s fiercest clubs
Quick Match Info
- Fixture: Orlando City SC vs Inter Miami CF
- Date: Sunday, August 11, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 7:30 PM ET
- Venue: Exploria Stadium, Orlando, Florida
Competition: Major League Soccer (MLS)
In the United States:
- TV Broadcast: FOX, FOX Deportes
- Streaming Platforms:
- Apple TV (MLS Season Pass)
- FuboTV
- Xfinity Stream App (for Xfinity subscribers with free access to Sunday Night Soccer)
International Viewing:
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No matter where you are, you can stream the action live in HD with multi-language commentary options. Whether you’re at home or on the go, there’s no reason to miss this high-stakes rivalry.
The Rivalry: Why It Matters
The rivalry between Orlando City and Inter Miami runs deeper than just geography. Since Inter Miami entered the league in 2020, this clash has delivered fierce tackles, stunning goals, and unforgettable moments.
So far, the record slightly favors Orlando City:
- Orlando Wins: 7
- Inter Miami Wins: 5
- Draws: 4
Miami’s last win over Orlando came in March 2024, with a dominant 5–0 victory. But since then, Orlando has bounced back with strong performances, making this rematch even more anticipated.
Messi Injury Update
Lionel Messi will not feature in this game. After picking up a knock during Leagues Cup action, Miami’s star forward is being rested as a precaution. Head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed the decision, saying it’s better to take a cautious approach rather than risk aggravating the injury.
Messi’s absence will be a blow to Inter Miami fans, but also a huge opportunity for other stars like Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Leo Campana to step up and lead the charge.
Tactical Preview & Lineups
Without Messi on the pitch, Inter Miami will have to adjust their style and rely more on team chemistry and midfield control.
Projected Lineups:
Orlando City (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Pedro Gallese
- Defense: Smith, Jansson, Schlegel, Santos
- Midfield: Araujo, Cartagena
- Attack: Torres, Pereyra, Angulo
- Striker: Luis Muriel
Key players to watch include Facundo Torres and Luis Muriel, both in fine form after strong showings in the Leagues Cup.
Inter Miami (4-3-3)
- Goalkeeper: Drake Callender
- Defense: Yedlin, Kryvtsov, Miller, Allen
- Midfield: Busquets, Arroyo, Cremaschi
- Attack: Taylor, Suárez, Martínez
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What to Expect: Match Outlook
Expect high pressure and physical intensity. Orlando, playing at home, will look to dominate early and force Miami into defensive mistakes. Without Messi’s creativity, Inter will likely depend on Luis Suárez to hold the ball up and create space for runners like Robert Taylor.
Miami’s midfield trio—Busquets, Arroyo, and Cremaschi—must keep possession and control the tempo. Orlando will counter through Torres and Muriel with pace and precision.
Key Storylines:
- Can Inter Miami win without Messi?
- Will Orlando get revenge for that 5–0 loss earlier this year?
How will Suárez perform in Messi’s absence`