Top spot in the MLS Eastern Conference is on the line when Nashville SC host Inter Miami at Geodis Park on Saturday.
Just two points separate the sides heading into the clash, with Nashville leading the standings after a 2-2 draw against DC United, while Inter Miami were also held to a 2-2 draw by the Columbus Crew before their Leagues Cup campaign came to an end.
BJ Callaghan’s side have enjoyed an outstanding league campaign, losing just one of their last 12 MLS matches and boasting the best defensive record in the division with only 14 goals conceded.
Geodis Park has become a fortress, with Nashville unbeaten in nine home league games this season, winning eight of them.
Inter Miami, meanwhile, saw their hopes of Leagues Cup glory ended with consecutive defeats to Monterrey and Club Leon, leaving MLS as their primary focus.
Angel Guillermo Hoyos’ side have been one of the league’s strongest travelling teams, winning a league-high eight away matches and remaining unbeaten on the road under their current manager.
The Herons have scored a league-high 45 MLS goals this season and have found the net three or more times in five away league matches.
They also have fond memories of visits to Nashville, winning each of their last two regular-season trips to Geodis Park, including a thrilling 5-2 victory last season.
Nashville v Inter Miami team news
Nashville could again be without Patrick Yazbek because of a hamstring injury.
Alex Muyl is expected to be available after recovering from a lower-body issue, while Cristian Espinoza is pushing for a return after being an unused substitute against Monterrey.
Sam Surridge scored his 50th goal for Nashville across MLS regular-season and playoff matches in the draw with DC United, while Shak Mohammed also got on the scoresheet.
Inter Miami are monitoring German Berterame, who is a doubt with a nose injury, while Tadeo Allende remains sidelined by a knee problem.
Lionel Messi returned during the defeat to Club Leon after missing the previous match following the passing of his father.
Luis Suarez is available again after serving a Leagues Cup suspension and will be looking to extend his MLS scoring streak to six matches.
