Inter Miami Coach Breaks Silence as Messi-led Squad Stumble in Club World Cup Opener

Lionel Messi in action for Inter Miami at the Club World Cup

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Lionel Messi in action for Inter Miami at the Club World Cup

Inter Miami Coach Breaks Silence as Messi-led Squad Stumble in Club World Cup Opener

Stephen Awino 14:25 - 15.06.2025

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano has shed light on Messi's situatuion ahead of Club World Cup.

Inter Miami opened their 2025 Club World Cup campaign with a scoreless draw against Al Ahly at Hard Rock Stadium.

Head coach Javier Mascherano acknowledged his team's first-half nerves but praised their improved second-half performance.

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"I'm happy with the performance. We were better in the second half," Mascherano stated.

"In the first, we were sloppy with possession and gave away too many dangerous transitions. In the second half, we created chances, controlled the game, and had opportunities to win. That's football."

Despite the draw, Mascherano expressed satisfaction with his team's effort and attitude, particularly considering their upcoming group stage matches against Porto and Palmeiras.

"We knew we were up against a strong team.The nerves and anxiety played a trick on us in the first half," he admitted.

"But we had our chances to win. The team left a very good impression. This is the path forward… playing like this, we can beat anyone.”

Tough Start for the Herons

Club World Cup
Al Ahly forced a Lionel-Messi led Inter Miami into a draw. Photo: Miami Herald

In a match where Lionel Messi appeared isolated and clear scoring chances were few, Inter Miami's goalless draw does little to bolster their hopes of advancing from the preliminary stage.

up next for Miami are continental powerhouses Porto and Palmeiras, a win would have been a significant boost for Mascherano's side.

Mascherano commended captain Lionel Messi's performance and commitment. Despite recent international duty with Argentina, Messi played the full 90 minutes.

"It’s admirable how much love Messi has for the game. After all the matches he’s played, he’s still here, giving his all," Mascherano remarked.

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