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Inter Miami's unbeaten streak in Major League Soccer this season came to an end with a 4-3 loss against FC Dallas on April 27 at Chase Stadium.
The Herons were going strong without a single loss in their first eight matches this season. The odds seemed to be in their favor against Dallas, with Inter Miami leading 3-1 in the first 60 minutes.
However, things took a dramatic turn as Dallas found the back of the net thrice in a span of 17 minutes, sealing the victory against the Herons.
Coincidentally, Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi was missing in action against Dallas. Since the beginning of the season, the Argentine icon's time on the pitch has been kept under check as he has been dealing with muscle problems.
Messi also missed Argentina's two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March's international break due to minor issues.
Messi's absence against Dallas was anticipated as a part of the routine break ahead of Inter Miami's CONCACAF Champions Cup semi-final clash, questions surfaced about his fitness as the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's fitness.
Now, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has explained why Messi was missing in action against Dallas.
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What did Javier Mascherano say about Leo Messi's absence in Inter Miami's first MLS loss of the season?
During the post-match press conference, Mascherano was asked by reporters about Messi's absence in Inter Miami's first MLS loss of the season.
The Argentine manager clarified that the 37-year-old is 'fine,' and was rested alongside other teammates such as Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets ahead of their Champions Cup semi-final clash.
"Leo’s fine. Obviously we decided, with the rest of the players, to reserve him after a match like Vancouver, on a synthetic field, six or seven hours [flight from Vancouver]. He trained well [on Saturday], and he's ready."
Mascherano's positive update about Messi will come as a relief to Inter Miami fans as the Herons head to the second leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup semi-final against Vancouver Whitecaps.
The Herons suffered a 2-0 loss against Vancouver in the first leg and will have to bring on their A-game in the second, which is slated for April 30, at Chase Stadium.
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