Javier Mascherano is readying his Inter Miami squad for a decisive Leagues Cup quarter-final showdown with Mexican powerhouse Tigres UANL scheduled for Wednesday, August 20 at Chase Stadium. The Argentine coach guided "Las Garzas" to a confidence-boosting victory over LA Galaxy in Week 29 of the MLS 2025 season, helping the team bounce back from their disappointing defeat to Orlando City.
"We've recovered our competitive edge at just the right moment," a source close to the Miami coaching staff revealed. "The team understands this is a kill-or-be-killed situation against one of Mexico's strongest sides."
While Lionel Messi's physical condition remains somewhat uncertain, Inter Miami can draw inspiration from Club América's recent performance against Tigres. This past weekend, América defeated the Monterrey-based team at their home stadium, providing a potential blueprint for Miami's approach.
Interestingly, América's victory demonstrated that despite having less possession, they could create dangerous opportunities against Guido Pizarro's team. The Mexico City club weathered difficult moments before capitalizing on their chances - a strategy that could suit Miami's counter-attacking capabilities.
Inter Miami boasts an impressive roster featuring talents like Luis Suárez, Rodrigo De Paul, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba - more than enough firepower to challenge Tigres' stars such as Ángel Correa, Juan Francisco Brunetta, Fernando Gorriarán, and veteran striker André-Pierre Gignac.
Tactically, Miami should pay special attention to Brunetta, who plays alongside Gorriarán in a double pivot but often initiates Tigres' attacking moves. While Correa's individual quality makes him dangerous, it's Brunetta's playmaking that could pose the greater threat to Mascherano's side.
Can the Fort Lauderdale franchise overcome one of Liga MX's perennial powerhouses? Wednesday's clash at Chase Stadium will give us the answer.
