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Inter Miami Draws: Mascherano Ejected, Messi Rested

3/15/2026

48 10 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Inter Miami's coach Javier Mascherano rested Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul, resulting in a scoreless draw against Charlotte FC on March 14.
The decision prioritized the next second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup against Nashville SC.
The referee ejected Mascherano late for arguing, and he will miss coaching the next MLS game.
Inter Miami earns a point and sits on six MLS points.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1962, the CONCACAF Champions Cup aimed to elevate club soccer competition in North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Over the years, it has featured teams like Inter Miami and Charlotte FC, reflecting soccer's growing popularity in the U.S. The tournament's knockout format, introduced in 2018, has intensified its strategic significance, as seen in Javier Mascherano's decision to rest key players.

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Story summary

Inter Miami's coach Javier Mascherano rested Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul, resulting in a scoreless draw against Charlotte FC on March 14.
The decision prioritized the next second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup against Nashville SC.
The referee ejected Mascherano late for arguing, and he will miss coaching the next MLS game.
Inter Miami earns a point and sits on six MLS points.

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