Published Feb 25, 4:35am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Feb 25, 4:35am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Feb 25, 4:35am ET
Standout action from the MLS is set for March 1, as the first Florida Derby of the 2026 season is slated. Find the odds and our Orlando vs. Inter Miami picks here.
Lionel Messi’s defending MLS Cup champions were humbled on the opening weekend, losing 3-0 against LAFC. A return to form is required on Sunday.
Orlando were also underperformers in the opening round of fixtures, losing 2-1 at home against the NY Red Bulls.
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|
|---|---|
| Orlando | +188 |
| The Draw | +271 |
| Inter Miami | +131 |
Oscar Pareja cut a frustrated figure on opening night in the MLS, as his Orlando City side showed little cutting edge in the final third of a 2-1 loss against the NY Red Bulls.
In fact, winter signing Tiago was the only bright spark from the bench, netting a very late consolation. Martin Ojeda and Duncan McGuire failed to link up the play, and were constantly guilty of losing position.
That could ensure that Ojeda is forced into a wide position this weekend, allowing Brazilian Tiago to play in a central role.
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Once again, a lot will be expected of Inter Miami in 2026, as Lionel Messi bids to guide the franchise to a second straight MLS Cup.
However, the retirements of Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba were felt on matchday one, as Inter lacked cohesion across the field. Despite dominating the ball, Inter weren’t able to get Messi on the ball in key areas, limiting the champions to just two shots on target.
Tadeo Allende was a shock exclusion in the loss against LAFC, but the winger is expected to return to the starting eleven on Sunday. Gonzalo Lujan is also expected to be recalled in favor of Micael.
| TOTAL | Orlando | Inter Miami | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Games | 19 | 7 | 6 | 6 |
| Goals | 58 | 28 | 30 |
Javier Mascherano is expected to go back to basics with Inter Miami this weekend following a heavy loss last weekend. That should suit their chances, while their chances are enhanced based on Orlando’s poor offensive quality shown in their latest defeat.
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Pick
Inter Miami
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