'Huge physical toll' - Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano says fatigue played a role in disappointing draw against Toronto FC

Mascherano credited a strong performance from USMNT goalkeeper Sean Johnson as part of the reason why Miami dropped points Saturday. 

“I think we deserved to win - we had the clearest chances," the Argentine coach said. "We had 15 minutes of confusion in the second half, but the match was under control. I believe their goalkeeper was the man of the match.” 

The Herons now face a tight turnaround, hosting Chicago Fire Tuesday at Chase Stadium. 

“We have to keep going. We have four matches left and we’ll try to win them all to finish as high as possible," Mascherano said. "We’re focused on ending the regular season near the top. Maybe we missed an opportunity today, but we want home-field advantage in the playoffs. We’ll keep fighting for the Supporters’ Shield - we have that obligation."

The coach acknowledged the heavy workload his team has faced in recent weeks, especially after competing in the Club World Cup.

“It was always going to be a tricky game. Not even 72 hours had passed since the match in New York. It’s a huge physical toll, and we faced a team that hadn’t lost in its last five games,” he said.

Inter Miami had controlled their own destiny in the Supporters’ Shield race. Following the draw with Toronto, the Herons will need help from other results - even if they win their remaining four games - to claim the trophy.