DC United vs Inter Miami with Messi in Baltimore: The ultimate guide to the clash
It's finally here. The big football weekend is upon us, and the eyes of the MLS world are fixed on Baltimore. Not exactly the first place that springs to mind for a showcase event featuring Lionel Messi, but that's precisely where the action is this weekend. DC United have moved their home game against Inter Miami to the M&T Bank Stadium, and the whole city is buzzing. Having been close to the build-up to this spectacle, I can tell you now: this is shaping up to be more than just a game of football. It's a full-blown event.
Why Baltimore and not Washington D.C.?
For the purists wondering why DC United are suddenly playing in Baltimore, it's a logistical masterstroke. DC United's home ground, Audi Field, with its 20,000 seats, is simply too small to contain the Messi-mania. By moving to the Ravens' football stadium, they can host three times as many fans. And believe me, tickets flew out the door. Half the city was scrambling for the dc united - inter miami guide on the best way to get to the stadium. Local authorities have pulled out all the stops to manage the situation, with special traffic measures and shuttle services. It's a massive organisational effort, and fair play, they've got it down to a tee.
Messi-mania in Charm City
You can feel the electricity in the air. Baltimore, or "Charm City" as the locals call it, has spruced itself up for the arrival of the Argentine maestro. I was down at the Inner Harbor yesterday, and everywhere you looked, fans were sporting pink Inter Miami jerseys. They've even unveiled a special "Charmtastic Mile" promotional poster for the occasion. The city is embracing it wholeheartedly. For the die-hard fans looking to write their own dc united - inter miami review after the final whistle: this is your chance to be part of history. It's set to be one of the best-attended football matches ever in the state of Maryland.
Top tips for match-goers
If you're lucky enough to be there (or if you manage to snag last-minute tickets, though I doubt it), there are a few things you need to know. The city is packed, and the traffic is mental. Baltimore City has announced a whole list of road closures for this weekend, in effect from Friday evening through to Sunday night. Leave early! Factor in extra travel time and use public transport if you can. Here's my golden advice:
- Parking: Forget parking right near the stadium. Use the Park & Ride options on the outskirts of the city centre.
- Arrival time: Get to the stadium at least two hours before kick-off. Security will be tight and queues will be long.
- Soak up the atmosphere: Take your time hanging around outside the stadium. Fans from both sides are mixing, the craic is fantastic, and you'll want to soak in the feeling of this unique football day.
The match: More than just Messi
Sure, we're all here for Messi. But let's not write off the home team. DC United are playing in front of their own fans (even if a chunk of the stadium will be backing Inter) and they'll want to put on a show. For their players, it's the chance of a lifetime to test themselves against the world champion. I'm expecting a fast start from DC United, trying to apply early pressure. But with a fired-up Messi, Suárez, and the rest of that star-studded line-up, Inter Miami are always dangerous on the counter. It'll be a tactical battle, but with so much individual brilliance on the pitch, it could easily erupt into a goal-fest.
One thing's for sure: whether you're following a dc united - inter miami guide from your armchair in Ireland, or you're there live in Baltimore, this is a game you won't want to miss. It's a landmark moment in the short history of the MLS. I'm going to grab a cold beer and keep my fingers crossed for an unforgettable night. Bring on the spectacle!