Inter Miami is preparing to face Pumas UNAM in what promises to be a captivating 2025 Leagues Cup match this Wednesday. Both teams head into the third matchday with identical records of one win and one draw (1-1-0) in the competition. Inter Miami`s most recent outing saw them draw 2-2 against Necaxa, while Pumas secured a 3-2 victory over Atlanta United. A notable challenge for Inter Miami, often referred to as the Herons, will be the absence of their superstar Lionel Messi, who sustained an injury on Matchday 2 and is sidelined for an unspecified period.
The kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale.
Expert Insights from Martin Green
Sports expert Martin Green, a seasoned professional writer and handicapper with extensive global experience in covering the game, provides his analytical predictions for this upcoming fixture. His proven track record in various soccer categories underscores his profound understanding of the sport.
Key Predictions for Inter Miami vs. Pumas UNAM:
- Both teams to score & Over 2.5 goals
- Pumas UNAM +0.75 Handicap
Both Teams to Score & Over 2.5 Goals
Green`s forecast indicates that both sides will likely find the back of the net, leading to a total of over 2.5 goals. This prediction stems from observed defensive weaknesses on both ends of the field. Inter Miami has only managed two clean sheets since early June, and their defensive solidity has noticeably wavered without Messi`s presence. Conversely, Pumas will be without their veteran goalkeeper Keylor Navas, who was sent off early during their 3-2 triumph against Atlanta United on Matchday 2, further suggesting potential for a high-scoring affair.
Pumas UNAM +0.75 Handicap
Green anticipates a highly competitive and engaging encounter between two strong teams, emphasizing their unbeaten runs in the Leagues Cup leading into Wednesday`s match. He highlights the midfield as a crucial battleground, where Inter Miami’s highly experienced duo of Sergio Busquets and Rodrigo De Paul will contend with Pumas’ younger, more energetic midfield trio of Pedro Vite, Adalberto Carrasquilla, and José Caicedo. Despite the experience advantage held by Miami`s players, Green believes Pumas` dynamic play, demonstrated by their impressive performances against Orlando City and Atlanta United, positions them as a formidable and competitive force in this game.
