Most problematically, Mascherano didn't appear to recognize the problem, opting to keep the same tactics in place well into the second half. It's just one example, but it's part of a trend: In the last 10 games in all competitions, Inter Miami have won only three, conceding 16 goals.

Despite having the most expensive payroll in Major League Soccer and a roster led by Argentine icon Lionel Messi, Miami has lost four of its past five games, including a 4-1 drubbing on the road Saturday against Minnesota United.