On Saturday, May 10, 2025, Inter Miami suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat away to Minnesota United at Allianz Field during Matchday 12 of Major League Soccer.
Despite a goal from Lionel Messi early in the second half, Javier Mascherano’s side was outclassed by a sharper, more clinical Minnesota team.
⚽ Scorers of the Match
- Minnesota United:
- Bongokuhle Hlongwane (32’)
- Anthony Markanich (45+2’)
- Marcelo Weigandt (own goal, 68’)
- Robin Lod (70’)
- Inter Miami:
- Lionel Messi (48’), assisted by Jordi Alba
Although Inter Miami dominated possession (73%), the team failed to convert key chances, while Minnesota capitalized on defensive errors, especially on set pieces and crosses into the box (source).
📉 Mascherano’s Last Five Matches: A Mixed Bag
Since taking over as head coach, Javier Mascherano has had a bumpy ride with Inter Miami. In the last five matches across all competitions:
- March 29, 2025: Win 2-1 vs. Philadelphia Union
- April 3, 2025: Loss 0-2 vs. Vancouver Whitecaps (CONCACAF Champions Cup, semi-final first leg)
- April 10, 2025: Loss 1-3 vs. Vancouver Whitecaps (second leg)
- May 3, 2025: Win 4-1 vs. New York Red Bulls
- May 10, 2025: Loss 1-4 vs. Minnesota United
That’s 2 wins and 3 losses, with 10 goals conceded in just five matches—highlighting serious defensive fragility.
🧐 Is Inter Miami Ready for the Club World Cup?
With global stars like Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suárez, Inter Miami boasts a high-profile attack. However, recent results cast doubt on the squad’s readiness for international competition.
- Defensive Weakness:
Recurrent individual errors and poor organization have cost the team dearly—especially against Minnesota and Vancouver. - Messi Dependency:
While Messi continues to find the net, the team is overly reliant on his brilliance, with no clear offensive plan B. - Lack of Squad Depth:
The absence of key players—like Luis Suárez, who missed the Minnesota match for personal reasons—exposes the team’s lack of effective backups.
To compete with Europe’s top clubs at the Club World Cup, Inter Miami must reinforce its defense, diversify its attacking options, and improve team cohesion.
❓ Key Questions Moving Forward
- Is Mascherano the right man for the job?
His playing credentials are stellar, but are his tactical decisions and squad management up to the challenge? - Will the summer transfer window deliver?
Can the club bring in the defensive and midfield reinforcements it clearly needs? - Is the media spotlight hurting the team?
With global icons on the roster, is the constant media pressure affecting performance and focus?
In summary, while Inter Miami has elite attacking talent, key adjustments are needed if the club hopes to live up to its ambitions on the international stage.
