FC Cincinnati are preparing for a critical midweek MLS matchup as they host the surging Inter Miami at TQL Stadium on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. ET. The clash takes on added significance in the Eastern Conference standings, as Inter Miami’s current form sees them making a push towards the top, sitting fifth but with key games in hand[1][5].
Both teams are coming off contrasting results. FC Cincinnati suffered a disappointing 4-2 home loss against local rivals Columbus Crew—their first defeat since May 31—which dropped them to second place in the East and snapped a four-game winning run[1][2]. The team is looking to regroup quickly, with head coach Pat Noonan stressing the importance of collective play and attention to defensive cohesion following a second-half collapse against Columbus[4]. Defender Nick Hagglund is expected to be back in the lineup after recovering from broken ribs, giving Cincinnati a boost at the back[2].
Inter Miami, on the other hand, are in red-hot form, entering Wednesday’s match on a six-game unbeaten run in MLS play (five wins, one draw)[5]. Their attacking unit, led by Lionel Messi with 16 goals—currently tied for the Golden Boot—has been prolific, racking up 38 of the team’s 44 goals this regular season. Miami triumphed 2-1 over Nashville SC in their last outing, with Messi scoring both goals in the win[1][3]. Other top scorers include Allende (seven goals), Segovia, and Luis Suárez (five each)[5].
The head-to-head between Cincinnati and Miami is close, with Inter Miami holding a slight edge all-time (winning six of the previous eleven meetings, with Cincinnati winning four and one draw)[5]. Their last encounter in August 2024 saw Inter Miami claim a 2-0 home victory at Chase Stadium[3].
Cincinnati’s Evander, with 13 goals and eight assists, continues to be a bright spot, tied for third in the league for goals scored. Forward Kévin Denlkey is close behind with 12 goals[2][5]. The match is being eyed as a potential playoff preview, given both teams’ current status in the conference[1].
Prediction and expert analysis across multiple outlets give a narrow edge to the visitors, with many predicting an exciting, close contest likely to be decided by star power up front. The prediction consensus leans toward a 3-2 road win for Inter Miami[1][3].