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Mascherano Praises Luis Suarez After Dropping Him for Inter Miami vs FC Cincinnati

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Manuel Meza Cienfuegos | Last updated Nov 24, 2025 12:14 AM ET

Inter Miami CF decisively defeated FC Cincinnati 4-0 in the Eastern Conference semifinal on Sunday at TQL Stadium.

Lionel Messi, Mateo Silvetti, and Tadeo Allende (brace) were the goal scorers in a match widely dominated by the Herons.

Javier Mascherano's team was superior to the home side in shots, shots on target, possession, and even in passes.

One surprise of the match was that the Argentine coach decided to leave Luis Suarez on the bench, an experiment that worked, as Silvetti, 19, scored.

In any case, Suarez, 38, entered the match in the 76th minute. Mascherano spoke about his decision after the game ended.

Mascherano Claims Dropping Luis Suarez 'Wasn't Easy' as Inter Miami Advance to MLS Conference Final

The Herons' coach noted that although the decision to leave him on the bench was difficult, the way the Uruguayan reacted was admirable.

"It wasn't an easy decision, but the way Luis reacted was simply admirable," Mascherano said.

For a player with the winning mentality of Suarez, it is clearly difficult to see his coach decide to leave him out for such an important match.

Suarez has been key for Inter Miami this season, despite his age and despite no longer being in his best physical condition. In 30 MLS appearances, he has 10 goals and 11 assists. In total, the Uruguayan has 17 goals and 17 assists this season, considering the league, Leagues Cup, Club World Cup, and Concacaf Champions Cup.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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