Inter Miami Coach Javier Mascherano Caught Phoning Assistant Coach From Stands After Being Given Red Card

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano got creative in the second half of his team’s 2-1 Leagues Cup win over Mexican side Tigres on Wednesday.

The former Barcelona defender was shown a red card during halftime, forcing him to watch the rest of the quarterfinal from the stands of Chase Stadium.

But despite being ejected from the game, Mascherano could be seen sitting a few rows above Miami’s team bench, occasionally shouting at his assistants. In the 57th minute, cameras showed the Argentine seemingly phoning assistant coach Lucas Rodriguez Pagano and giving instructions.

A Leagues Cup spokesperson told The Athletic that Mascherano’s actions were legal under the rules.

“The Inter Miami head coach was located in a space designated according to tournament regulations,” the spokesperson said. “Cellphone communications are not prohibited per Leagues Cup regulations in this instance.”

Luis Suárez’s 23rd-minute penalty opened the scoring for Miami, giving them a 1-0 advantage going into the break. However, Tigres leveled the match in the 67th minute through striker Ángel Correa, who snuck behind the defense and slotted his effort past Oscar Ustari.

The hosts were awarded another penalty late in the game. Suárez completed his brace by converting the spot kick, punching the South Florida side into the semifinals of the tournament.

Miami will be looking to win its second Leagues Cup in the last three editions, having won for the first time in 2023. Mascherano’s side will face state rivals Orlando City next Wednesday, with the winners advancing to the final on August 31.