Mascherano confirmed it: Will Messi play against Pumas?

Inter Miami 's Argentine coach, Javier Mascherano , said Tuesday that Lionel Messi will not be available for tomorrow's match against Mexico's Pumas UNAM due to the muscle injury he suffered in the last match, which forced him to be substituted.

"He won't be available for tomorrow's game," Mascherano said at the press conference prior to the third and final matchday of the Leagues Cup first phase, in which Inter Miami plays at home and is vying for a place in the quarterfinals.

The Argentine coach said he had spoken with Messi yesterday, describing him as "a very special player who usually recovers very well from injuries," although he noted that medical tests will determine when he will be able to return to the field.

On the other hand, Inter Miami received the good news today that Uruguayan center back Maximiliano Falcón will be available for the match against Pumas, given that the disciplinary committee suspended the red card the defender received against Necaxa last Saturday.

"It's good news for us. We believed there had been unfairness in the match, and this decision confirms that," Mascherano said.

Regarding the Pumas, the coach said: "We're facing a great team with very good players. (Adalberto) Carrasquilla is one of the best."

A victory in regulation time would secure Inter Miami's qualification for the quarterfinals, while any other result would leave them dependent on the remaining matches.

MF