Mascherano: Ustari saved the team in the first half, we will try our best to protect Messi

This morning, Miami International drew 0-0 with Cairo Nationals in the opening match of the Club World Cup, and Mascherano was interviewed after the game.

Mascherano said: "Ustari made the team save in the first half, not only saved the penalty, but also two or three key saves that prevented the opponent from scoring the goal."

"Obviously, when we put Messi in the right position and pass the ball to him in the best way, we can create more opportunities. We come one by one, knowing that the next game will be higher because the opponent is a European team. But we have to remember that football is 11-to-11, and everything is possible."

Mascherano also emphasized , With only one year left before the World Cup, his job is to protect Messi: "Messi is in good shape, and he can play means that there is no problem. He did not feel uncomfortable when he returned from Argentina. We have five days off, I believe that is enough, but we will observe the situation every day."

"When he has any discomfort, we always try our best to take care of him in the best way. I think he is in very, very good shape now. We want to protect him, help him as much as possible, and we must make sure he can compete in the best form next year."