FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano criticized MLS' decision to suspend Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba for Saturday's 0-0 draw at home against FC Cincinnati for failing to participate in the All-Star Game, questioning whether the same ruling would have been made if Miami had instead been playing a road game.

Javier Mascherano has made Lionel Messi-led Inter Miami's objective clear after their elimination from the Club World Cup.

Inter Miami earned a valuable draw against Cincinnati despite missing both Messi and Alba, turning to Luis Suárez to lead the attack. It was a marked improvement from their previous encounter a few weeks ago, when they lost 3-0 on the road. Head coach Mascherano acknowledged the team’s effort and missed chances.

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano has hit out at the MLS for their decision to suspend Lionel Messi following his no-show at the All-Star game last week.