"I don’t understand why they didn’t use it" - Inter Miami boss slams refereeing as Lionel Messi's side lose to Nashville in MLS playoffs

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano criticized the refereeing after the Lionel Messi-led side lost 2-1 to Nashville in the MLS Playoffs first round. Following this defeat, the Herons will have to face Nashville in a third game in the round to decide their qualification for the next stage.

Inter Miami started off the MLS Playoffs well, winning their first clash with Nashville 3-1. Lionel Messi scored a brace in the game. However, in the second round, they lost 2-1, with Sam Surridge scoring from the penalty spot (9'), and Josh Bauer (45') doubling the lead before the half-time whistle. Lionel Messi was the only saving grace, scoring the Herons' only goal in the clash (90'). The result of the third game in this round will decide which team goes to the Conference Semifinals.

In the post-match press conference (via GOAL), Inter Miami boss Javier Mascherano criticized 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.”

Having missed out on the MLS Cup last year after being knocked out in the Round One Best-of-Three Series, Lionel Messi and co. will be desperate to make a comeback in the third game. They will next face Nashville on November 8.

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Inter Miami boss Javier Mascherano explains how the team failed to find Lionel Messi in 'good positions' vs Nashville

Nashville SC v Inter Miami CF - 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs - Source: Getty

In the post-match press conference, Javier Mascherano also shared more insights on what Inter Miami lacked in the game. One key issue was the team's inability to connect with Lionel Messi on the pitch, who's central to any game of the Herons. Mascherano said (via GOAL):

"We couldn’t find Leo in good positions in the first half - we weren’t precise in the final-third, and credit to the opponent for that. In the second half, even though they sat back, we managed to create a few more chances."

He added:

"We have to swallow the anger and carry it with us all week so we can release it next Saturday."

Messi continues to remain decisive for his side, having scored in both games in the best-of-three series so far. He also won the MLS Golden Boot for scoring the most number of goals in the league this season (29 goals).