Lionel Messi’s Suspension Drama Unfolds: Will He Play in Inter Miami’s Decisive Clash Against New England?

Lionel Messi will be available for Inter Miami’s decisive match against New England Revolution on Nov. 1, even though he received his fifth yellow card of the MLS season in the 2-2 draw with FC Cincinnati.

The Argentine captain avoids a suspension thanks to a league rule that rewards good behavior, a relief for the Herons as they fight for a place in next year’s Concacaf Champions Cup.

Messi was booked in the 44th minute at Nu Stadium, adding to the yellow cards he had already received in matchweeks 8, 11, 20 and 31, and the one he got in matchweek 33.

Under MLS rules, a player automatically reduces his yellow card total by one each time he appears in five consecutive matches without receiving a yellow card, a red card or supplemental discipline. The incentive can be applied a maximum of three times in the regular season.