Following the match at Mercedes-Benz on 29/6, Mascherano revealed that Inter Miami's plan was primarily defensive, aiming to neutralize PSG's attacking prowess and technical skills. The American team wanted to close down spaces, seeking opportunities from second balls and set pieces. Mascherano also abandoned wide attacks to prioritize a tight defensive block in the midfield. This tactic proved ineffective as Inter Miami were outplayed and suffered a 0-4 defeat, with all four goals occurring in the first half.

"When facing an opponent like PSG, with so many attacking options, you have to prioritize defense," the Argentinian coach said. "You can't cover the entire pitch, it's impossible. We tried to shut down the spaces in midfield and concede the flanks, despite the risks. That was the idea. We knew we would have to endure and defend."

Coach Javier Mascherano (in black) shakes hands with Lionel Messi after Inter Miami's 0-4 loss to PSG in the round of 16 of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Georgia, USA, on 29/6. Photo: The New York Times

Lionel Messi was a rare bright spot for Inter Miami. The Argentinian star had four shots, two on target, both saved by goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. He also created a clear chance for Luis Suarez inside the box, but his teammate's touch let him down.

"The plan was to get the ball to Messi and accelerate. In the second half, that was a bit clearer. But if their opponent in the Champions League final wouldn't stand a chance, then it's difficult," Mascherano said, referring to PSG's 5-0 demolition of Inter Milan in the Champions League final.

The 41-year-old coach responded strongly when further questioned about Inter Miami's approach. The MLS representatives conceded four goals in the first half without registering a single shot. In the second half, they created eight chances but failed to score.

"What else could we have done? There are two kinds of football: one in real life and one online," Mascherano said. "In hindsight, everyone knows how to play. We planned for a clearly defensive game. We couldn't put eight or nine players in the box because that wouldn't guarantee a win either. The idea was to try to hold on as long as possible. But the team conceded early and then collapsed after the second goal."

Key moments of the PSG 4-0 Inter Miami match.

Meanwhile, Jordi Alba expressed pride, stating that Inter Miami had a successful tournament by achieving their goal of advancing past the group stage. Inter Miami were also the only MLS representative to reach the knockout rounds. Seattle Sounders failed to earn any points in Group B, while Los Angeles finished bottom of Group F with only one point.

Alba emphasized that the FIFA Club World Cup was a learning opportunity for many young players in the squad who lacked European competition experience. For Inter Miami academy graduates like Benjamin Cremaschi and Noah Allen, the tournament provided their first chance to face clubs outside the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) in a competitive setting.

"With Messi's arrival, many doors have opened for everyone," Alba said. "Along with the arrival of Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets, we are trying to help all the young players develop, improve, and learn many things for the future."

Hong Duy (According to AS, ESPN)