'We can’t just focus on the penalty' - Javier Mascherano defends Lionel Messi after miss in Inter Miami's loss to Charlotte

Javier Mascherano came to Messi’s defense after the Argentine missed a crucial penalty during Inter Miami’s 3-0 loss to Charlotte FC on Saturday night. With the match still scoreless, Messi attempted a Panenka from the spot, only to see it denied by the goalkeeper.

“We can’t just focus on the penalty. If there’s anyone who has carried us through this season, it’s Leo,” Mascherano said. 

The Inter Miami head coach put the responsibility on himself, saying, “If you’re expecting me to come here and judge my players, that’s not going to happen. The one most responsible for our poor results is me."

On the performance as a whole, Mascherano admitted his team fell short.

“The players showed attitude and tried to compete," he said, "but it wasn’t one of our best nights. They struck us at the right moments and we just couldn’t recover.”

The defeat leaves Inter Miami further adrift from the top spots in the East, though with games still in hand they remain in playoff contention. Currently eighth with 46 points, the Herons will try to bounce back quickly when they host Seattle Sounders on Tuesday in a Leagues Cup rematch.

Dean Smith’s side extended their winning streak to nine in MLS, cementing their status as title contenders. They now sit third in the Eastern Conference with 53 points.