Inter Miami Clinches Leagues Cup Quarterfinal Spot: Mascherano Says ‘We’ve Achieved Our First Goal’

Inter Miami has officially booked its ticket to the quarterfinals of the Leagues Cup, and head coach Javier Mascherano isn’t just pleased—he’s proud. Following a decisive 3-1 victory, the Argentine manager addressed the media with a blend of relief and satisfaction, emphasizing that the team had fulfilled its primary mission: to advance.

“We’ve achieved our goal,” Mascherano stated with conviction. “Qualifying was always the first objective, and we’ve done it with heart, grit, and a growing sense of unity on the pitch.”

A Game of Two Halves

The first 45 minutes weren’t Miami’s best. The team struggled to find rhythm, and the connection between midfield and attack appeared disjointed. But Mascherano, ever the tactician, made key adjustments at halftime.

“The message during the break was clear: take control, be braver in transition, and don’t hesitate in front of goal,” he said.

That message seemed to strike a chord. In the second half, Inter Miami returned to the field with a renewed energy. The passes were sharper, the runs more aggressive, and the intent undeniable.

Suárez Leads the Charge

Veteran forward Luis Suárez proved once again why he remains a lethal force. The Uruguayan delivered not only a crucial goal but also contributed two assists, orchestrating the attack like a seasoned maestro.

“Luis showed why he’s so valuable—not just with his goal but with how he lifted the entire team,” Mascherano said. “He stepped up when we needed leadership the most.”

Suárez’s link-up play and vision helped unlock the Pumas defense, and his emotional drive was contagious.

Rodrigo De Paul’s Impact

Another highlight was the performance of Rodrigo De Paul, who brought intensity and spark to the midfield. The newly integrated player seamlessly slotted into the lineup and helped balance the team’s transitions.

“Rodrigo is like a fire that never goes out,” Mascherano noted. “His work rate is phenomenal, and his presence lifts everyone around him. He brings a rhythm we need, especially in these do-or-die matches.”

De Paul was eventually subbed out, but not before leaving his mark—both tactically and emotionally.

Winning Without Messi

One of the most notable aspects of this victory was that it came without the team’s biggest name—Lionel Messi. With the Argentine superstar absent from the lineup, questions lingered about Miami’s ability to perform under pressure.

But Mascherano was quick to dispel any doubts.

“Of course, Leo is an ace up our sleeve. But tonight proved that we’re building something deeper. This is a team that can adapt. A team that wants to win—together.”

He acknowledged Messi’s influence on and off the pitch but emphasized that success shouldn’t hinge on one player alone.

Looking Ahead

With their quarterfinal spot secured, Inter Miami now faces tougher challenges ahead. But the foundation laid by Mascherano and his squad shows promise. Their blend of experience and fresh energy seems to be finding the right balance at just the right time.

“We’re not done,” Mascherano said, his eyes focused on the future. “This was step one. The next goal is to reach the final—and win it. But for now, we celebrate this victory. The team earned it.”

A Moment of Unity

Beyond the tactics and individual brilliance, what truly stood out was the sense of unity in the squad. The celebrations after each goal weren’t just expressions of joy—they were statements of togetherness.

Inter Miami isn’t just relying on big names. It’s building chemistry, learning resilience, and evolving into a side that believes in itself.

And for Mascherano, that might be the most important win of all.