Inter Miami weaker team but capable of shocking PSG – Mascherano

Messi, Suarez shine in Inter Miami win against Red Bulls

Inter Miami weaker team but capable of shocking PSG – Mascherano

Javier Mascherano insists his Inter Miami side can shock European champions Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup last 16 on Sunday, despite admitting they are levels below the French giants.

With Argentine great Lionel Messi leading the charge, Miami surprised in the group stage as they progressed but facing newly-crowned Champions League winners PSG in Atlanta is a “huge challenge” in the coach’s eyes.

“We will try to be up to the standard, we will try to do things in the best way we can, and why can’t be dream of being able to shock them?” Mascherano told a news conference Saturday.

“My message (to the players) is that this is not over yet, there is a game to be played. We know we are taking on an opponent of unique power, one of the best in the world, but this is football.

“Tomorrow, why not try to play the best game possible, a near-perfect game for us, and have the chance of competing and some chance of going through.”

Despite PSG being heavy favourites, Mascherano said his side cannot be written off before a ball is kicked at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

“We are not naive, we know that the feeling around the game is we are the weaker team, that’s clear,” continued Mascherano.

“That doesn’t mean they can kill us in advance. We will fight, that’s what it’s about. I think the beautiful thing about the game tomorrow is that we have earned the right to play it.”

The coach said he was glad 38-year-old playmaker Messi played for Miami now, rather than PSG.