Inter Miami’s coach, Javier Mascherano, has expressed satisfaction with his team’s efforts during their recent tournament campaign, despite a heavy defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.
Speaking after the game, the Argentine tactician acknowledged the gulf in quality between the two sides but maintained pride in his players’ display.
“We achieved the goal we had set for ourselves, we were very aware that we could compete up to a certain level, and today reality has shown that,” Mascherano told reporters.
His side, led by global icon Lionel Messi, struggled in the first half under PSG’s intense pressure but showed more of their familiar style after the break.
“I think Leo played a great game, within the options we had. In the second half, we found him much more. In the first half, we couldn’t due to Paris’s pressure,” said the coach.
“They slowed their tempo in the second half, and we were able to show what we usually do in MLS (Major League Soccer).”
While PSG continues to dominate world football, the sheer presence of Messi continues to captivate fans worldwide.
The Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta was a sea of Inter Miami jerseys, with many proudly donning the number 10 shirt of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
“PSG is in great form, champions of everything, but people still pay for a ticket to see Leo Messi, even at 38 years old,” Mascherano added.
Despite the one-sided scoreline, Mascherano remained upbeat about his squad’s growth and fighting spirit.
“I am very proud of my players, of the work they did in the competition (…) we tried to show in each match what we could do. The gap is what it is, but I am very proud of them.”
