Javier Mascherano faced the media following Inter Miami’s 4-0 defeat to PSG in the Club World Cup Round of 16. Despite the scoreline, the Argentine coach stood by his team’s efforts and used the moment to highlight both the learning curve and the character of his players.
On understanding their limits coming into the game:
“We were very clear that we could only compete up to a certain level. Sooner or later, reality catches up with you.”
On his pride in the squad’s overall campaign:
“I’m proud of the players for the tournament they had. We lived up to the expectations placed on us.”
On conceding early and how it shaped the game:
“When you concede so early against a team like this, it’s very difficult. Especially when it’s from a set piece we had trained for.”
On the team’s second-half reaction:
“In the second half, they slowed down, and we were able to play more and show what we usually do in MLS.”
On his defensive plan and PSG’s quality:
“We tried to close the middle and gave them the wings, knowing it was risky. But you can’t cover the whole field. It’s a privilege to face the best. There is a clear difference in hierarchy.”
On the emotional toll of the first half:
“I wanted to be on the field with my players. I told them at halftime: ‘I want to be out there with you.'”
On critics suggesting a more defensive approach:
“What do you suggest—eight or ten players inside our box? That doesn’t guarantee anything either.”
On lessons from the tournament:
“Playing teams of this caliber gives us an experience we’re not used to. We need to capitalize on that now.”
On how PSG compares to the top teams he faced as a player:
“PSG is a great team. With this youth, quality, and a great coach, they might be remembered for a long time.”
On Lionel Messi’s performance and legacy:
“Even at 38, people still pay to watch Leo Messi. That speaks to his greatness.”
Inter Miami will resume MLS action next Saturday when they face CF Montréal in Canada.
Proud of embarrassing the greatest football player that ever lived vs his old club from old clubs that blamed him for not winning the champions league 👏👏
Let’s see what Lautaro does tomorrow but then again he plays with that C. Sucker DUMBfries, still butthurt from the WC Just like all the pitiful losers….still calling rigged