In the opening match of the 2026 MLS season, LAFC emerged as a dominant force by securing a decisive 3-0 victory over Inter Miami. This win not only showcased their prowess but also propelled them to the top of the MLS Power Rankings, marking a strong start for the season.
Key Highlights from the LAFC vs. Inter Miami Match
- Date: The match took place as the MLS season kicked off on a Tuesday.
- Location: The game was held at the Memorial Coliseum.
- LAFC’s Goals: The scoring was led by David Martínez and Nathan Ordaz, along with contributions from Denis Bouanga and Son Heung-Min.
Messi’s Struggles
Inter Miami faced a challenging situation as Lionel Messi struggled to make an impact. His frustrations with the officiating became evident as he left the field, overshadowing the team’s performance. Despite high expectations, Miami’s defense continued to show vulnerabilities from the previous season, ultimately affecting their strategy.
Standout Performers in Matchday 1
- Warren Madrigal: The LAFC offseason acquisition made a significant impact with one goal and two assists in their opener against the Revolution.
- Christian Espinoza: Another key signing for LAFC, made a notable debut alongside Madrigal.
- Julian Hall: At just 17 years old, Hall scored twice in New York Red Bulls’ 2-1 victory over Orlando City.
- Guilherme: The Houston Dynamo’s new addition scored two goals in their 2-1 win against the Chicago Fire.
Notable Game Results
| Match | Result |
|---|---|
| LAFC vs. Inter Miami | 3-0 |
| New York Red Bulls vs. Orlando City | 2-1 |
| Houston Dynamo vs. Chicago Fire | 2-1 |
| Seattle Sounders vs. Colorado Rapids | 2-0 |
Other MLS Matchday Highlights
Several teams had a noteworthy start to the season, with San Jose and D.C. United both sealing impressive wins. San Jose defeated Sporting KC 3-0, bolstered by a strong offensive performance. D.C. United earned a 1-0 victory over Philadelphia Union, lifting spirits after a challenging previous season.
The overall performance across Matchday 1 indicates a highly competitive season ahead in MLS, with LAFC establishing early momentum as they aim for the championship. Fans are now eagerly awaiting the next matches to see how the teams will evolve throughout the season.
