Sun Jun 29 16:30:00 UTC 2025: **Inter Miami Coach Mascherano Calls for “Perfect Game” Against PSG in Club World Cup Clash**
**ATLANTA** – Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano acknowledged the daunting task ahead as his team prepares to face Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup round of 16, stating they will need a “perfect game” to overcome the European champions. However, he urged his players to believe in their chances despite being considered the underdogs.
“We are not naive, and we know that around the match, we are the weaker team, that is clear, but that does not mean that they kill us in advance,” Mascherano said in a press conference ahead of Sunday’s match in Atlanta.
He recognized PSG’s formidable power, describing them as “one of the best teams in the world.” Still, he expressed hope: “Why not try to play the best possible game, practically the perfect game for us, and have some chance to pass the tie?”
Mascherano emphasized that football provides opportunities to compete against superior teams, highlighting the sport’s appeal. He downplayed the surrounding narratives, including Lionel Messi’s reunion with his former team and coach Luis Enrique, with whom he had a successful but sometimes contentious relationship at Barcelona.
“Everything around Leo generates a very large exposure,” Mascherano stated. “The most important thing is that Leo is well and Leo plays for us and that is what makes us most calm. And then it will be a football match. Sometimes more importance is given from the outside than from the protagonists themselves, who are trying to do it in the best way.”
Mascherano also acknowledged his personal connection to Luis Enrique, calling him “one of the best coaches I had in my career” and emphasizing their strong relationship.
Despite Inter Miami’s relative youth, having only been established six years ago, Mascherano called on his team to remain ambitious, seeing this as a potentially unique opportunity.
“We can’t think that we’ve already done it and throw away the game. On the contrary. I don’t know how many times we will have the possibility as a club to play with a rival like PSG,” he said.
He concluded by stating that while PSG possesses immense quality, they are not perfect and can be hurt. Mascherano did not confirm whether Jordi Alba would return to the starting lineup following recent physical issues.
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