Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Jordi Alba were spectators in fieldside seats, sipping maté with their families, as Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano rested key players in preparation for Wednesday’s crucial Concacaf Champions Cup semifinal against the Vancouver Whitecaps. Despite their absence, the match delivered an unforgettable spectacle for FC Dallas fans at Chase Stadium.
A Stunning Comeback
Dallas fought back from a 3-1 deficit with less than 30 minutes remaining, scoring three goals in just 16 minutes to secure a dramatic 4-3 victory. This result handed Miami their first league loss of the season and extended Dallas’ undefeated road record in 2025 (3W-0L-3D). For first-year coach Eric Quill, this was a defining win, while for Mascherano, it raised concerns ahead of their second-leg matchup with Vancouver.
“It’s my responsibility,” a solemn Mascherano admitted post-match. The coach pointed to his own tactical errors and substitutions, taking full blame for the unexpected turn of events. “The players did everything they could. It’s on me.” 
Composure Amid Chaos
The tension was evident, even with Messi watching from the sidelines. Dallas coach Eric Quill’s tactical shift to a 3-4-3 formation, along with inspired substitutions like Brazilian forward Pedrinho, turned the tide. Pedrinho’s goal and assist within 32 minutes were instrumental in the comeback.
“This is a team that’s truly coming together,” Quill shared during the postgame press conference. “They’re fighting for each other, even in tough moments. That kind of mentality shows we’re building something special.”
Following the win, Quill celebrated the result with his wife in an emotional moment amidst the crowd. Still, he stressed the need to remain focused and continue climbing the table.
Dallas’ Resilience Shines
FC Dallas’ victory came despite missing key players like striker Petar Musa and with playmaker Lucho Acosta having a quiet game. Reflecting on the night, Acosta emphasized the team’s perseverance. “This team never gives up. We have the mentality to beat anyone, anywhere.”
Coach Quill echoed this determination, pointing out his squad’s resilience in facing a Miami team still regarded as one of MLS’s strongest, even without Messi and Suárez. “This is a quality Miami team. And we proved we can play with anyone.”
Lessons for Miami
Miami’s defensive struggles reemerged, a troubling pattern seen throughout their 2024 campaign. After promising signs of improvement under Mascherano, the lapses cost them dearly. Still, some solace can be taken from their offensive output, scoring three times despite the loss.
Mascherano remained optimistic about their upcoming match against Vancouver, noting that Messi and other key players had been rested for the challenge ahead. “Leo’s ready,” he confirmed.
Moving Forward
For Dallas, this win serves as a significant confidence boost as they work to improve their home form. For Miami, the defeat underscores the urgency of solidifying their defense if they hope to compete at the highest level.
Both teams now turn their focus to what’s next, with Dallas looking to build on their momentum and Miami seeking redemption in their Concacaf Champions Cup campaign.
