Why is Inter Miami guaranteed to host MLS Cup?

Inter Miami’s 4-0 victory over FC Cincinnati last weekend was a landmark result, for a number of reasons.

That victory, with the young Mateo Silvetti replacing Luis Suárez in the lineup, was one of Miami’s best of the season. It takes the team to the Eastern Conference semifinal for the first time. And last weekend’s results elsewhere ensure that Miami will have home advantage for MLS Cup, if it makes it.

So why would Inter Miami, a team who finished third in the Eastern Conference, have home advantage for the game? Both of the top two seeds in the East exited in the conference semifinals. Miami beat No. 2 Cincy and Supporters’ Shield winners Philadelphia Union were stunned by New York City FC.

Javier Mascherano’s side may have been third in the East but the points total was higher than any team managed in the Western Conference, meaning that Miami will play out the remainder of the postseason at Chase Stadium.

It’s an advantage for a team looking to make history in the league, powered by a Lionel Messi who looks unstoppable in his current form.

With a goal and three assists in the Cincinnati win, Messi extends his incredible run of form as he closes in on MLS Cup. The Argentine has now racked up a ridiculous 20 goal contributions in his past seven games for Inter Miami. Currently, he is scoring or assisting a goal once every 32 minutes.

“Weekend after weekend, he is incredible,” Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano said after the Cincinnati game. “We know how incredible he is with a ball, but he’s the first man to do the pressure, directing the team.

“It’s a privilege to coach Leo. He’s leading the team in defense, pressing high, so when the team-mates see Leo in this way, it’s impossible [not to] follow him. It’s unbelievable.”

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