Philadelphia Union vs. Inter Miami: prediction, projected lineups, how to watch | OneFootball

The Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia Union look to make a statement of intention when Lionel Messi and Inter Miami pay a visit on Saturday night.

Here's everything you need to know about a clash that could shape the East playoff picture.

How to watch Philadelphia Union vs. Inter Miami

Time: Saturday, May 24 at 7:30 pm ET

Venue: Subaru Park, Chester, Pa.

TV & Streaming: MLS Season Pass

Philadelphia Union vs. Inter Miami projected lineups

The Union are facing a short turnaround following their U.S. Open Cup round of 16 commitments. But Carnell spared regulars like Jovan Lukic, Mikael Uhre, Kai Wagner and Tai Baribo from starting duty and still guided his charges to a 4-1 win over the Pittsburgh Riverhounds of the USL Championship.

Meanwhile, Miami got a much-needed full week of rest, something they have only had twice before this season (not including the March international window).

But outside of the former FC Barcelona quartet of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba -- if they're healthy -- it's anyone's guess whom manager Javier Mascherano might start given his side's recent struggles.

Mascherano hasn't landed on what he thinks is his best XI, and a stretch of one win in seven matches probably brings more questions than answers. In last weekend's 3-0 loss to Orlando City, He tried pushing Jordi Alba up into a wide midfield role.

Philadelphia Union projected lineup (4-4-2, right to left)

Andrew Rick (GK) - Francis Westfield, Jakob Glesenes, Nathan Harriel, Kai Wagner - Quinn Sullivan, Danley Jean-Jacques, Jovan Lukic, Indiana Vassilev - Bruno Damiani, Tai Baribo

Inter Miami projected lineup (4-2-3-1, right to left)

Oscar Ustari (GK) - Marcelo Weigandt, Maxi Falcon, Noah Allen, Jordi Alba - Yannick Bright, Sergio Busquets - Ben Cremaschi, Lionel Messi, Telasco Segovia - Luis Suarez

Player status report

Philadelphia Union: Ian Glavinovich - knee (out), Neil Pierre - knee (out), Andre Blake - knee (questionable). Inter Miami: Drake Callender - sports hernia (out), David Ruiz - hamstring (out), Baltasar Rodriguez - hamstring (out).

Philadelphia Union vs. Inter Miami prediction

The Union deserved more from their previous meeting with Miam in South Florida than they received in their 2-1 defeat back on March 29.

That said, given that Miami is one of the league's oldest sides, the full week of rest and training may mean more to them than most. Even if this team doesn't win the Supporters' Shield or the East regular season title, it's a safe bet some of their recent ugliness owes to leaning heavily on four players over age 35 while balancing two competitions and regular midweek matches.

Ultimately, this game may unfold quite a bit like the last. A high-scoring draw or a one-goal win in either direction may be the most likely outcomes.