Javier Mascherano: Luis Suárez Essential for Inter Miami’s Success
Javier Mascherano, head coach of Inter Miami, dismissed the notion that his team performs better without star player Luis Suárez. Instead, he emphasized the importance of every player as the team prepares to face FC Cincinnati in the Eastern Conference semifinal.
Inter Miami’s Playoff Journey
Inter Miami advanced to the MLS playoffs knockout stage following a decisive 4-0 victory over Nashville SC. Notably, Suárez missed this match due to a one-game suspension for violent conduct.
Mascherano’s Strong Defense of Suárez
Mascherano defended Suárez’s contributions, stating, “We have played 55 games this season, winning 31. The majority of those wins came with Suárez on the field.” He argued that it’s essential to recognize the collective effort of the entire team.
The coach also highlighted that a successful season requires the involvement of every player, particularly in high-stakes situations like the upcoming match against Cincinnati. He noted, “There are no two games alike; Cincinnati is not Nashville,” indicating a need for strategic adjustments.
Contributions of Luis Suárez
- Suárez scored 10 goals and provided 10 assists during the regular season.
- His performance helped Inter Miami secure third place in the Eastern Conference.
Preparing for the Next Challenge
As the team gears up to face FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium, the focus remains on advancing to the Eastern Conference final for the first time in the club’s history. Mascherano expressed confidence in his team, stating, “It’s not in my head to not win. The team has reached this part of the season in the best way.”
With a healthy roster ahead of the match, including the return of Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul from international duty, Inter Miami aims to build on its recent momentum. Ian Fray, however, remains a doubt due to an injury sustained while playing for the Jamaican national team.
Looking Forward
The upcoming match against FC Cincinnati is poised to be a pivotal moment in Inter Miami’s history as they seek to push further into the playoffs. With Mascherano at the helm, the team is determined to stay focused on their goals and showcase their best performance yet.
