Photo via Mascherano on IG
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano made it clear that defeat is not an option as his team prepares to face FC Cincinnati in the MLS Eastern Conference semifinal. Speaking before the final training session on Saturday, Mascherano said the idea of losing “has not entered his mind” and confirmed that Luis Suárez is likely to return to the starting lineup.
The Herons come into this clash high on confidence after a 4–0 demolition of Nashville, which secured their first-ever spot in the conference semifinals. However, the challenge ahead is formidable. Inter Miami travel to TQL Stadium, where they suffered a 3–0 defeat earlier this season, determined to make a statement in the east.
“We’ve played 55 games this season, winning around 31. And the majority, we’ve done so with Luis Suárez on the field,” said Mascherano. “To point out one player or another is not my style, and it would be disrespectful to Luis and his career. For a team like ours, with such a long season, we knew from the start we’d need everyone.”
Mascherano emphasized that team rotation and adaptation remain key.
“There are no two games alike — Inter Miami vs Cincinnati will be very different from Nashville,” Mascherano added.
Injury Update: Ian Fray Doubtful
The coach also confirmed that Ian Fray picked up a knock while on international duty with Jamaica and will train separately from the squad. Fray has been a crucial figure in Miami’s defense, and his absence could be another blow for the Herons.
“It’s welcome that every time there’s a more important game than the one we played previously,” Mascherano noted when asked about squad depth and challenges this season.
Focus on Winning Mentality
Mascherano insisted that the focus remains on maintaining momentum rather than fearing defeat.
“It’s not in my head to not win. The team has reached this part of the season in the best way — not only because of our level and recent performances, but also because of the atmosphere in training,” he said.
The Argentine coach also confirmed that Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul returned from international duty fully fit and are expected to start. Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, both set to retire at the end of the season, will aim to cap off their legendary careers with one final trophy.
Inter Miami will face FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on Sunday in what promises to be a fierce and emotional semifinal showdown. The clash between Inter Miami and Cincinnati promises to be one of the season’s defining moments. Fans around the world will be watching to see if Messi and Mascherano can guide Miami one step closer to the MLS Cup.
