New York City FC head coach Pascal Jansen emphasized the need for a ‘bulletproof’ mentality as his team prepares to face Inter Miami in the Eastern Conference final on Saturday at Chase Stadium. He aims to minimize the influence that star players like Lionel Messi might have on the game’s atmosphere.
Since his appointment at the start of the 2025 season, Jansen has brought NYCFC tantalizingly close to securing a second MLS Cup title.
– Mascherano urges Miami: ‘We need everyone’
– 2025 MLS playoffs conference finals preview
– MLS Cup conference semifinals talking points
“From day one of this project, I told my team to cultivate a bulletproof mindset,” Jansen explained to ESPN. “No matter where or against whom we play, our focus must remain on executing our game plan.”
“Players need to concentrate on their roles and maintain their identity, regardless of the opposition,” he continued. “This mindset is crucial, especially when facing a player like Messi, whose influence on the league is significant and overwhelmingly positive.”
He added, “However, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when competing against a legend like Messi. There’s a risk you might lose focus on your responsibilities, which could hinder our competitiveness in achieving the desired results.”
This season, NYCFC has struggled against Inter Miami, with the teams drawing 2-2 in their first encounter at Chase Stadium and NYCFC suffering a 4-0 defeat at Citi Field in September.
However, Jansen believes the team has evolved since their last match against Miami, aiming for a more formidable performance this time around. “This game will be challenging,” he stated. “We’ve faced Miami twice, and our initial match was particularly insightful as it marked my first experience in MLS and showcased the impact Messi brought to the game on various levels—fans, officials, and even our players.”
“The lessons from those encounters have been critical for our development as a team. With some changes on Miami’s side and the progress we’ve made, I am confident we will present a better challenge than in previous games. Nevertheless, the differences in this match could be minimal.”
NYCFC secured their playoff position by finishing fifth in the Eastern Conference, ultimately defeating Charlotte FC in the opening round and the reigning Supporters’ Shield champions, Philadelphia Union, in the conference semifinals to reach the final.
In contrast, Miami has been dominant in the playoffs, winning by 4-0 margins against Nashville SC and FC Cincinnati after entering the playoffs as the third seed. With the likes of Messi in their ranks, along with former Barcelona stars Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, they are considered the favorites heading into Saturday’s matchup.
When asked about the underdog label, Jansen reaffirmed the significance of his team’s mental resilience. “I have no issue with being seen as the underdog,” he said. “They can label us however they wish. Our bulletproof mindset remains unchanged. External opinions and labels don’t matter to us.”
The winner of the Eastern Conference final will advance to face either San Diego FC or the Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup on December 6.