Messi’s Absence: Inter Miami’s Triumph and Tactical Decisions
In the world of soccer, few names resonate as powerfully as Lionel Messi. Yet, for the second consecutive game, fans of Inter Miami CF found themselves watching their team without the legendary Argentine on the pitch. Head coach Javier Mascherano was quick to clarify that Messi’s absence was not due to an injury. Instead, it was a strategic decision to rest the player, who had been feeling fatigued after a grueling schedule.
Inter Miami faced off against Cavalier in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup round of 16 at Chase Stadium on Thursday night. Despite Messi’s absence, the team secured a 2-0 victory, showcasing their depth and resilience. This win followed another Messi-less triumph over the Houston Dynamo in the MLS on Sunday. The absence of Messi was felt by fans, leading the Texas side to offer free tickets to another match later this season for those who attended the game.
Mascherano explained, “As for Leo, I follow what the doctors tell me. The doctors told me that he doesn’t have any injuries or scars. He is fatigued after playing three games in six days.” The coach emphasized the importance of managing Messi’s workload, especially given the changes in weather and other factors that could contribute to his fatigue. “We want to take care of him and we don’t want to make him feel fatigued,” Mascherano added, acknowledging the challenges of playing without the world’s best player.
During a training session on Wednesday morning, media observed Messi participating normally with his teammates, dispelling any concerns about his physical condition. The only player training separately was Fafà Picault, who is recovering from an injury sustained earlier in the season. Messi had also trained ahead of the match against Houston Dynamo but ultimately did not travel with the team.
Despite the absence of their captain, Inter Miami’s performance was commendable. Goals from Luis Suárez and Tadeo Allende secured the victory. Initially, Cavalier seemed to have taken the lead in the first half, but the decision was overturned by VAR due to an offside call. This turn of events seemed to energize the Herons, who returned to the pitch in the second half with renewed vigor. Suarez’s goal in the 61st minute set the tone, and his subsequent efforts doubled the lead, giving Miami a comfortable advantage heading into the second leg on March 13 in Jamaica.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami is preparing to host Charlotte FC on Sunday night at Chase Stadium in the MLS regular season. The team will need to continue adapting to playing without Messi, at least for the time being, as they navigate the challenges of a demanding schedule.
- Inter Miami’s recent victories highlight their depth and ability to adapt without Messi.
- Coach Mascherano emphasizes the importance of managing Messi’s workload to prevent fatigue.
- Upcoming matches will test the team’s resilience and strategic planning.
As fans eagerly await Messi’s return to the field, the team’s recent performances offer a glimpse of their potential to succeed even in the absence of their star player. The decision to rest Messi reflects a broader strategy to ensure his longevity and effectiveness throughout the season.
Originally Written by: Lizzy Becherano
