Major League Soccer
“We Achieved Our First Goal” – Mascherano Delighted As Inter Miami Clinch MLS Playoff Spot
Inter Miami have officially sealed their place in the MLS playoffs after a commanding 4-0 victory over New York City FC at Citi Field on Wednesday night.
Manager Javier Mascherano hailed the achievement as the team’s “first goal” of the season, while stressing that the Herons are still targeting a higher finish in the Eastern Conference and potentially the Supporters’ Shield.
Messi & Suárez Lead The Charge
It was a night to remember in New York as Lionel Messi netted a brace, Baltasar Rodríguez struck once, and Luis Suárez calmly slotted home a penalty.
The win lifted Miami to third in the East with 55 points, while also boosting their confidence with a rare clean sheet — something they’ve only managed five times this season.
“We achieved our first goal, it was very important for us,” Mascherano said post-match. “We still have two games left, so we’ll rotate a bit, but we also want to win and secure the best possible playoff position.”
Messi’s Team-First Mentality
Mascherano praised Messi’s leadership and unselfishness after the Argentine once again shared penalty opportunities with his teammates.
“We need goals more than he does, and that’s exactly how he wants it. Suárez needed to score, and that’s really good for the group.”
Clean Sheet A Welcome Sign
The shutout was another highlight for Miami, who will be keen to sharpen their defense ahead of the postseason.
“The next games we’ll work hard to avoid conceding. That will help us a lot in the playoffs,” Mascherano added.
What’s Next?
With two regular-season games remaining, Miami will look to climb higher in the table and secure home-field advantage for the playoffs. Their immediate focus shifts to a clash against Toronto FC this weekend.
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**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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