Inter Miami boss Javier Mascherano slammed the referees after the Lionel Messi-led side lost 2-1 to Nashville in the MLS Playoffs first round. After this loss, the Herons will have to face Nashville in a third game in the round to decide their qualification for the next stage.
Inter Miami kicked off the MLS playoffs well, winning their first game with Nashville 3-1. Lionel Messi scored a stunning brace. However, in the second round, they lost 2-1 with Sam Surridge scoring a penalty and Josh Bauer doubling the lead before the half-time whistle. Lionel Messi was the lone goal scorer in the game. The result of the third round will decide which team goes to the Conference Semifinals.
In the post-match press conference, Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano slammed the decision not to consult the VAR for the penalty conceded by goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo. He said:
“I’d rather not comment on the refereeing. I know how the system works, and I don’t want to give anyone an excuse to come after me. But I’m surprised they didn’t go to VAR - the tool is there, and I don’t understand why they didn’t use it.”
Lionel Messi will be desperate to make a comeback in the third game, after being missed out on the MLS Cup last season after being knocked out in the Round One Best-of-Three series. Inter Miami will face Nashville SC on November 8.