Inter Miami slipped a 4-1 loss against Minnesota United, on May 10, as Lionel Messi’s goal was not enough to prevent a Major League Soccer loss at Allianz Field.
This defeat was particularly harsh on the Herons, as they have not faced a loss so heavy since Messi’s arrival at the club back in July 2023.
While Inter Miami are enjoying a great start to the ongoing MLS campaign their form has dipped in recent matches.
With the defeat against Minnesota, Javier Mascherano’s side have now faced four losses in their last five matches across all competitions, which also includes elimination from the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinal.
Following the latest setback, Mascherano indicated there was only one person ‘responsible’ for his side’s underwhelming display.
Who did Mascherano hold ‘responsible’ for Inter Miami’s latest MLS defeat?
While addressing reporters in the post-match press conference, Mascherano reflected on the performance against Minnesota. The Argentine claimed (via Mundo Albiceleste) his side ‘didn’t play the game they wanted as lapses in concentration’ led to defeat in a match they ‘had under control.’
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“We didn’t play the game we wanted. In the first half, we had control and possession, but in two plays – due to lapses in concentration – caused us a lot of damage in a match we had under control.
“We initially controlled the game, but it’s never easy to attack a team that defends deep like Minnesota. There wasn’t much space to attack in the final third, and without space, it’s hard to create clear chances. Every time we attacked, we were vulnerable on transitions after losing the ball. That’s what worries me the most.
Mascherano then took the blame on himself, claiming full ‘responsibility’ for his squad’s display.
“If the players’ performance drops, the responsibility is entirely mine. In the end, that’s what a coach is – and if the players aren’t convinced by what the coach is proposing, it’s the coach’s fault.
While it had not been a good weekend for Inter Miami, Messi & Co. are anticipated to bounce back stronger in their next MLS clash, against San Jose Earthquakes on May 14 at PayPal Park.
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