Inter Miami Head Coach Javier Mascherano made it clear that he will not take any risks with Lionel Messi when they are confronted with Orlando City, but emphasized the goal of the team to win in MLS and to insist on a Deep Leagues Cup -Run. The reigning supporters' Shield Champions will meet Tigres in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, August 20 in Chase Stadium, but first have two MLS matchups to navigate.
In addition to Seattle Sounders, La Galaxy and Orlando City, Miami is one of the four ML parties to reach the quarterfinals of the Leagues Cup 2025 after three games in the group stage. They booked their place with a dramatic comeback victory in Pumas and now established their sights on Tigres.
Messi excluded from Inter Miami vs. Orlando City
Mascherano spoke with Diario as USA Latino, focused on the recovery of Messi, the role of Rodrigo de Paul, the challenge of being confronted with Tigres and the push of the team to end strong in competition game.
“No, Leo will not be available against Orlando City. He is doing well, but it would be crazy to risk him tomorrow since everything that awaits us,” said Mascherano. “We are very optimistic that he will be with us again soon.”
Miami's tough matchups
Mascherano praised the resilience of the team this season and noticed large versions, not only in MLS and Leagues Cup, but also in the club World Cup and Concacaf Champions Cup.
“The match against Pumas was one that we had to win to qualify. We went down early, which we didn't deserve, but we turned it around. In the second half we stayed calm, played with intelligence – and yes, with a lot of fight – to get the result,” he said.
Faced with TIGRES in the Cup Quarters of the League
“Tigres is a great team-so to show Puebla last night. They have top quality players and they are always looking for titles. First we have to handle these two league matches against Orlando and next Saturday against the Galaxy and then we will concentrate on Tigres.”
Rodrigo de Paul's versatility
“He started in that free role, so that Tadeo and Luis Suárez could play further ahead. In the second half we had him more opposite the field instead of playing with his back to goal. He is versatile, can play in different positions, and it's great that he adds goals.”
The impact of Yannick Bright
“Yannick is a huge player for us. He missed seven weeks with an injury, but we brought him back. He recently had an excellent game – frankly, it is rare that he has a bad one.”
Payback time for the 3-0 loss for Orlando City
“We want to close the gap in head-to-head matchups within the conference. We have already played both games with Cincinnati and they are for us. But we have gotten better against teams such as Philadelphia, Columbus and Nashville. With Orlando we are still three points. Those details can be important later.”
Supporters' shield no obsession
“We play to win every match. First in the overall table would be great for play-off positioning, but as last year showed, it doesn't guarantee anything. The goal is to win all 12 of our remaining regular season races, plus every competition cup match that we can.”
Inter Miami Injury -Update
Mascherano concluded by revealing that Messi would not be the only absent against Orlando, with defender Obando also out. However, goalkeeper óscar Ustari is available for selection.
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