What's Happening?
LAFC opened the 2026 MLS season with a decisive 3-0 win against Inter Miami at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The match featured a standout performance from LAFC, who managed to keep Lionel Messi scoreless. David Martinez, Denis Bouanga, and Nathan Ordaz scored for LAFC, with Son Heung-min playing a pivotal role in the team's offensive strategy. The game attracted a record crowd, highlighting the growing interest in MLS. LAFC's new coach, Marc Dos Santos, successfully implemented a strategy to neutralize Messi, contributing to the team's victory.
Why It's Important?
This victory is significant for LAFC as it demonstrates their capability to compete at the highest level in MLS, especially against a team with high-profile players like Messi. The win also marks
a successful start for Marc Dos Santos as head coach, following the departure of Steve Cherundolo. For Inter Miami, the loss indicates areas for improvement, particularly in defense and strategy execution. The match's high attendance reflects the increasing popularity and competitive nature of MLS, positioning it as a major player in the global soccer landscape.
What's Next?
LAFC will look to maintain their winning momentum in upcoming matches, while Inter Miami will need to reassess their strategies to bounce back. Both teams are also set to compete in the Concacaf Champions Cup, where they aim to assert their dominance. The performance in these competitions will be crucial for their standings and confidence as the season progresses.
