Inter Miami delivered a confident 4-0 victory over Atlanta United at Chase Stadium, with Lionel Messi once again stealing the spotlight. Head coach Javier Mascherano praised his captain’s influence, saying the win was a big step as the team strengthened their playoff push.
Lionel Messi inspired Inter Miami to another victory, returning from international duty after receiving clearance from Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni. Mascherano made this revelation in a press conference video posted via Inter Miami’s official X account. He revealed:
Yesterday before the game, I spoke to Scaloni. He said he was not going to use Leo, so I spoke to him, and we agreed he could play today. We saw the opportunity, and clearly, he was ready.
Mascherano credited Messi’s motivation and professionalism for his sharp performance despite not training with the squad all week. The coach said:
We know he is unique. Beyond not having trained with us, he helped us win. He managed to score, which was also important for him.
The team’s performance showed unity and belief, something they had also displayed in the 4-1 win over New England. Mascherano noted:
When we are focused and convinced of what we want, we can do it well.
On the pitch, Messi opened the scoring in the 38th minute with a curling left-footed strike before adding his second late in the game. Jordi Alba’s clever chip and Luis Suárez’s rebound finish completed a well-rounded team display. Atlanta United goalkeeper Jayden Hibbert kept his side in it early on, but Inter Miami’s dominance soon told.
Mascherano also shared how special it felt to work again with veterans he once played alongside. He said:
It is a privilege for me to be reunited with Jordi and Busi after seven years. I think Jordi is one of the best left-backs I have ever seen. For me, tonight was a complete night — for Leo, for the team, for everyone.
Watch the video below:
