Mascherano Compares Messi to Sporting Legends After Inter Miami Victory

Following Inter Miami's victory over the New York Red Bulls in their Major League Soccer (MLS) match, manager Javier Mascherano praised Lionel Messi, highlighting his impact on the sport. Mascherano compared Messi's status to that of basketball legend Michael Jordan and tennis icon Rafael Nadal, emphasizing his ability to transcend the sport itself.

Messi continued his impressive form, scoring his sixth brace in the last seven matches. Inter Miami dominated the New York Red Bulls, winning 5-1 in Harrison, New Jersey. The Argentinian superstar delivered a standout performance, scoring two goals and providing two assists. This performance helped his team defeat the 2024 MLS Cup finalists on their home ground.

Mascherano, who played alongside Messi for Argentina and FC Barcelona, shared his perspective on the player's impact. He noted that even in places where Messi is not frequently seen, people react with excitement. Mascherano believes the admiration for Messi goes beyond his footballing abilities, recognizing him as a role model who transcends the sport. He stated that sports fans worldwide admire athletes like Messi, Jordan, and Nadal, who have made history in their respective sports.

Reflecting on the win, Mascherano acknowledged the challenges of the recent travel and limited rest. He mentioned that the match against Cincinnati reflected the team's fatigue. He added that the team would use the upcoming week to allow the players who needed it most to rest.

In a recent tournament, Inter Miami participated in the FIFA Club World Cup, but their journey ended in the pre-quarters after a loss to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

In the match against the New York Red Bulls, the hosts initially took the lead. However, Inter Miami quickly responded, with Jordi Alba equalizing the score with an assist from Messi. Telasco Segovia scored two goals in the first half, both assisted by Messi, giving Inter Miami a 3-1 lead at halftime.

Messi scored a goal in the 60th minute. Later, Luis Suarez assisted Messi, who scored again, bringing the final score to 5-1.

Inter Miami currently holds the fifth position in the league standings. They have 12 wins, five draws, and four losses, accumulating a total of 41 points. Messi's goal tally in the ongoing MLS season has reached 18, with a total of 27 goal contributions. Since joining the American club in the summer of 2023, he has scored 40 goals.