Manager Javier Mascherano lamented Inter Miami’s missed opportunity to climb in the Eastern Conference standings after a 1-1 draw with Toronto FC on Saturday night, just 72 hours after facing NYCFC. While his side still hold games in hand, the dropped points complicated their pursuit of the Supporters’ Shield amid a congested schedule.
Getty Images SportInter Miami let chance slip away
Mascherano credited a strong performance from USMNT goalkeeper Sean Johnson as part of the reason why Miami dropped points Saturday.
“I think we deserved to win – we had the clearest chances," the Argentine coach said. "We had 15 minutes of confusion in the second half, but the match was under control. I believe their goalkeeper was the man of the match.”
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The Herons now face a tight turnaround, hosting Chicago Fire Tuesday at Chase Stadium.
“We have to keep going. We have four matches left and we’ll try to win them all to finish as high as possible," Mascherano said. "We’re focused on ending the regular season near the top. Maybe we missed an opportunity today, but we want home-field advantage in the playoffs. We’ll keep fighting for the Supporters’ Shield – we have that obligation."
Getty Images Sport'Not even 72 hours had passed'
The coach acknowledged the heavy workload his team has faced in recent weeks, especially after competing in the Club World Cup.
“It was always going to be a tricky game. Not even 72 hours had passed since the match in New York. It’s a huge physical toll, and we faced a team that hadn’t lost in its last five games,” he said.
Getty Images SportSupporters’ Shield chances at risk
Inter Miami had controlled their own destiny in the Supporters’ Shield race. Following the draw with Toronto, the Herons will need help from other results – even if they win their remaining four games – to claim the trophy.