Javier Mascherano praised the new signing Rodrigo de Paul after the Argentine midfielder filled the gap in Lionel Messi’s absence to inspire Miami to beat Pumas Unam 3-1.
As Messi was unable to get due to a hamstring injury – eight hitters cheered off the court – De Paul made another good performance and scored the club’s first goal to ensure Miami’s place in the knockout stage.
Jorge Ruvalcaba put visitors in front after 34 minutes, but De Paul joined Miami’s first loan deal from Atletico Madrid on July 26 and was evenly balanced in the half.
Luis Suarez brought Mascherano’s soldiers from free throw percentage to close to the hourly free throw position, while Tadeo Allende scored 3-1 after 69 minutes.
The dazzling Paul Voss
De Paul and Suarez showed off their class throughout the process, and the two linked it to the Levelers.
“I’m more grateful for De Paul’s will and energy than his performance,” Mascherano said.
“It will be good or bad, but he showed a way of being willing to wear the jersey and play himself in the pre-season preseason way. He’s just back from the holidays and his impact on the rest of the team is a big help.”
We achieved our goal – Miami boss
The win means Miami scored eight points in their three games – a regular win with Atlas and Puma won a free throw win over Nikasa, pushing the Florida to the quarterfinals.
Mascherano added: “It was a great joy. We achieved our goal in qualifying and I think we did a great job and despite the difficulties we had, we also played a great game.”
“I’m happy for the lads, their efforts. This is the first goal, but it can’t change everything about us. Now, our focus is Sunday [for the MLS game]. ”
Miami goes to state rival Orlando City on the weekend and hopes Messi is available.
