Inter Miami Shines as Mascherano Benches Suarez in Playoff Win

Inter Miami’s impressive playoff surge with Lionel Messi has taken center stage, thanks in large part to head coach Javier Mascherano’s bold decision to leave out Luis Suarez for a crucial knockout match. Former U.S. striker and Apple TV football analyst Taylor Twellman has heaped praise on Mascherano, saying he’s never seen Miami look this cohesive with Messi on the pitch.

Inter Miami’s Revival with Messi: Tactical Bravery Pays Off

Inter Miami, featuring global superstar Lionel Messi, stunned fans and pundits alike with a defensively solid performance in the playoffs. Taylor Twellman spotlighted Javier Mascherano’s role in this resurgence, noting that Mascherano’s courage to drop Luis Suarez was true to his character. “Javier Mascherano has always been bold,” Twellman explained during an Apple TV media call, “and he’s proving that as a manager.”

The decision to bench Suarez, given his pedigree, was not taken lightly. Mascherano’s move came after Suarez’s suspension following the Leagues Cup, but the timing coincided with the integration of key players like Mateo Silvetti and Baltasar Rodríguez. According to Twellman, these changes, rather than Suarez’s absence alone, have been pivotal to Miami’s current form.

Mascherano’s Defensive Tweaks: A New Miami with Messi

One of the standout improvements has been Miami’s defense. Twellman pointed out that Miami had never managed a playoff clean sheet before, but under Mascherano they’ve now secured two in a row. “I’ve done more Messi games than anyone,” Twellman remarked. “I’ve never seen Miami and Messi on the field together defend this well. The structure and competence are on another level.”

Much of this new stability is credited to the integration of Silvetti, Rodríguez, and the switch to Rocco Rios Novo in goal. Mascherano’s tactical adjustments, such as shifting to a three-at-the-back system with Sergio Busquets in possession and pushing Rodrigo De Paul further forward, have injected balance and resilience into the side.

Mascherano’s Evolution: From Player to Influential Coach

According to Twellman, Mascherano’s transition from legendary player to assertive coach is shaping a new identity for Inter Miami. He’s not shying away from tough calls, as seen with Suarez, and is unafraid to overhaul the side after setbacks—like the Leagues Cup final defeat and a heavy loss to Chicago.

“He’s figured out what wasn’t working,” Twellman said. “He made the call to replace Ustari with Rios Novo and restructured the midfield. The tweaks have made Miami much harder to break down, which is a huge contrast to their earlier vulnerabilities.”

What’s Next: Inter Miami Set for High-Stakes Clash

With morale and momentum surging, Inter Miami is now preparing to take on New York City FC in the Western Conference final at Chase Stadium on November 29. The changes implemented by Mascherano mean NYC FC will face a very different Miami side than in the regular season.

Twellman believes these bold moves are part of the team’s evolution. “I wasn’t surprised Suarez was benched,” he said. “Miami with Messi on the field has never looked this good. New York City knows they’re up against a new version of Miami.”

Opinion: Mascherano’s Gamble Could Redefine Miami’s Legacy

The transformation under Javier Mascherano is a testament to the power of bold decisions and tactical ingenuity. Benching a star like Suarez is never easy, but the results speak for themselves—a defensively robust Miami, a more influential Messi, and a genuine shot at the MLS Cup. If this new Miami sustains their momentum, Mascherano’s choices could mark the beginning of a golden era for the club. For more news, visit for more news.