Messi may play as Inter Miami faces first real ‘must-win’ match Saturday against Cincinnati at DRV PNK Stadium

Herons fans shouldn’t give up hope — never say never — but definitely should face reality: the playoffs are slipping away.
FC Cincinnati forward Dominique Badji holds the Supporters’ Shield, the MLS award for the team with the best regular-season record.
FC Cincinnati forward Dominique Badji holds the Supporters’ Shield, the MLS award for the team with the best regular-season record. / Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
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Lionel Messi's status remains uncertain a day before Inter Miami is set to host Supporters' Shield winners FC Cincinnati. / GIORGIO VIERA/GettyImages

If the Men in Pink are going to qualify for the postseason for a second straight season, they will have to do it without Lionel Messi. The maestro, who has played just 37 minutes since suffering an undisclosed leg injury playing for Argentina against Ecuador in September, may play Saturday against FC Cincinnati, but he and teammate Facundo Farias have been called up to La Albiceleste for matches Oct. 12 and 17. The Herons host Charlotte on Wednesday, Oct. 18, and play at Charlotte on Decision Day, Oct. 21.

Inter Miami CF midfielder Facundo Farias has been called up to Argentina’s men’s national team for the Oct. 9-17 FIFA window.
Inter Miami CF midfielder Facundo Farias has been called up to Argentina’s men’s national team for the Oct. 9-17 FIFA window. / Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports