Inter Miami Aims for First Win of the Season Against Houston Dynamo
Inter Miami FC prepares to face the Houston Dynamo this Sunday at Shell Energy Stadium, seeking their first victory in the 2024 Major League Soccer (MLS) season. The team, which concluded the previous season with a remarkable 74 points—setting the standard for the league—opened this year’s campaign with a vigorous 2-2 draw against New York City FC on February 22, followed by a compelling 3-1 victory over Sporting Kansas City in the Concacaf Champions Cup earlier this week. Meanwhile, Houston Dynamo will approach this match after suffering a narrow 2-1 defeat against FC Dallas in their season opener.
Recent Performance and Match History
Historically, the Dynamo have had the upper hand in their encounters with Inter Miami, winning the last three meetings. This includes a 2-1 victory in a U.S. Open Cup match on September 27, 2023. The upcoming match adds further intrigue as Inter Miami will be without their star player, Lionel Messi, who did not travel with the team due to management’s decision to rest him amid a congested schedule.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET, in an eagerly anticipated encounter that holds significant implications for both teams. According to the latest betting lines, the Dynamo are positioned as modest favorites at +120, while Inter Miami is at +210, and a draw is priced at +240. The over/under for total goals scored is set at 2.5.
Key Players to Watch
In the absence of Messi, the spotlight will shift to Inter Miami’s offensive arsenal, particularly forward Luis Suarez. The 38-year-old Uruguay international was instrumental for the team last season, netting 21 goals and contributing 10 assists in 30 appearances. His performance against Sporting Kansas City, where he scored one goal and assisted another, signifies he remains a vital component of the team’s attack.
For the Houston Dynamo, midfielder Amine Bassi has made an early impact in the season, already finding the net once and providing ten assists throughout last year. His attacking partnership with forward Ibrahim Aliyu—who led the Dynamo with six goals last season—will be crucial as Houston looks to capitalize on their home advantage. Aliyu also has a notable history with European clubs, having scored multiple goals in previous leagues, including Croatia’s HNL.
Expert Analysis and Betting Insights
Jon "Buckets" Eimer, a known soccer betting expert, has provided insights into this crucial match, advising caution on potential picks while leaning towards an over on the goal total. His track record highlights a solid grasp of MLS dynamics, making his opinions valuable for fans and bettors alike.
Conclusion
As Inter Miami searches for its first win of the season without Messi, the match against Houston Dynamo promises to be a compelling display of talent on both sides. The Dynamo’s current momentum and prior success against Miami give them confidence, while Miami’s high-caliber players could still alter the game’s outcome significantly. Sports enthusiasts and bettors alike will keenly watch this match, as it may set the tone for both teams in the early stages of the season. With tensions running high and stakes at play, viewers can anticipate an exciting showcase of Major League Soccer action.
