Javier Mascherano spoke about the importance of facing tough opponents ahead of the start of the MLS season
nter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano shared his perspective after the U.S. side’s 2–1 win over Atlético Nacional.
Inter Miami has secured a high-profile victory in the heart of Colombia, turning a prestigious friendly into one of the standout moments of their 2026 international tour. In a packed Atanasio Girardot Stadium, the "Herons" managed a hard-fought 2-1 win over Atlético Nacional, the reigning Copa BetPlay champions. The match delivered everything fans expected: high intensity, a passionate crowd, and a dramatic finish that kept the spectators on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
The Comeback: Suárez and a Stroke of Luck
The match didn't start according to plan for the MLS side. The "King of Hearts," Atlético Nacional, took an early 1-0 lead through a well-executed strike by Juan Manuel Rengifo. However, the squad led by Javier Mascherano—the legendary Argentinian "Jefecito" (who is taking charge of his second preseason with the club)—showed remarkable resilience.
The equalizer came courtesy of none other than Luis Suárez. The Uruguayan marksman proved once again that his instincts remain sharp, finding the back of the net to level the score. As the game seemed destined for a draw, drama struck in the final minutes. A crossing attempt resulted in an unfortunate own goal by Elkin Rivero, handing Inter Miami a providential victory in a match where they had to fight for every inch of grass.
Mascherano’s "South American Lesson"
Beyond the scoreline, the match provided critical data for Inter Miami’s technical staff. Speaking after the game, Mascherano emphasized the importance of testing his squad in difficult environments.
"Playing against South American giants in stadiums like the Atanasio is a different kind of challenge," the Argentinian manager noted. "The atmosphere is tense, the pace is physical, and it serves as a formative process for a team still in its adjustment phase." This was only Miami’s second preseason game of 2026, and while Mascherano admitted the team is "far from its best version," he praised the moments where his tactical vision began to take shape on the pitch.
The Messi Phenomenon in Medellín
While the goals provided the excitement, the soul of the night belonged to Lionel Messi. The Atanasio Girardot was a sea of pink jerseys, as local fans put aside club loyalties to witness the greatest player of all time. Messi played for 76 minutes, receiving a thunderous ovation every time he touched the ball.
Mascherano was blunt about the "Messi Factor," stating that the captain’s presence opens doors that would be otherwise impossible for an MLS club. This tour across South America, characterized by sold-out stadiums and high-caliber rivals, is a testament to the continental prestige Messi has brought to the Inter Miami project.
For the Herons, this wasn't just an exhibition match. It was a test of the group’s mental strength and a demonstration of how far the club has come in its quest to be a dominant force in the Americas. As they head to their next destination, the victory in Medellín serves as a massive confidence booster for the challenges ahead in the 2026 season.
