Mascherano Calls Suárez Suspension “Very Strange” Ahead of Decisive Playoff Match

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has questioned the decision to suspend Luis Suárez for the club’s decisive third match in the MLS Round 1 best-of-three playoff series against Nashville.

Suspension Explained

Suárez received a one-game suspension for a second-half incident involving Nashville player Andy Nájar during Miami’s 2-1 loss on November 1 at Geodis Park. The referee issued no card at the time, and the play had been reviewed by VAR.

On Friday, MLS confirmed that Nashville submitted the incident for post-match review under league rules, which allow each club one unsuccessful challenge in the postseason. Because Nashville’s challenge was validated, they retain their right to challenge future incidents.

Mascherano’s Reaction

“In my personal opinion, it felt very strange,” Mascherano said. “It was reviewed live by VAR and did not warrant a card. To receive a suspension afterward is surprising.”

He confirmed that Suárez filed an appeal independently, but the appeal was denied within hours. Mascherano added that Suárez was “very surprised” by the ruling.

Impact on the Decisive Match

Inter Miami will host Nashville on Saturday at Chase Stadium without Suárez, whom Mascherano described as a “key figure” in the squad. The winner advances to the Eastern Conference semifinal.

Inter Miami won the opening match of the series 3-1, while Nashville took the second 2-1 to force a decisive third game. Miami is seeking to reach the second round of the playoffs for the first time since joining MLS in 2020.

“We cannot control the suspension,” Mascherano said. “But we can control how we prepare, and we will go out to win and secure qualification.”