In a stunning display of dominance, LAFC dismantled defending MLS Cup champions Inter Miami CF 3-0 in the 2026 season opener on February 21 at the iconic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The match, which set a new MLS opening weekend attendance record with 75,673 fans, saw Lionel Messi and his star-studded squad outplayed from start to finish, raising early questions about their title defense.
Match Recap
LAFC wasted no time asserting control, capitalizing on Miami's sluggish start to build pressure. The Black & Gold's tactical discipline under head coach Steve Cherundolo neutralized Miami's high-possession game, leading to a one-sided affair.
First Half Dominance
The breakthrough came in the 38th minute when David Martínez opened the scoring with a clinical finish, assisted by summer signing Son Heung-Min, who made an immediate impact in his MLS debut. Despite holding 63.3% possession, Inter Miami failed to create meaningful chances, with their shots largely off target and LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris rarely tested.
Second Half Sealing the Win
LAFC extended their lead in the 73rd minute through Denis Bouanga, who slotted home after a swift counterattack. The Gabonese forward also provided an assist, underlining his all-around performance. Nathan Ordaz added a late third in the 90+4th minute, putting the result beyond doubt and capping a miserable night for Miami. Substitutions, including Miami's introduction of players like Yannick Bright and Matías Choinière around the 68th minute, did little to shift the momentum.
Key Stats and Lineups
Both teams lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with LAFC's setup proving far more effective.
LAFC Starting XI
- GK: Hugo Lloris
- Defenders: Eddie Segura, Nkosi Tafari, Ryan Porteous, Sergi Palencia
- Midfielders: Mark Delgado, Stephen Eustáquio, Denis Bouanga, Timothy Tillman, David Martínez
- Forward: Son Heung-Min
Inter Miami Starting XI
- GK: Dayne St. Clair
- Defenders: Including Yannick Bright and others in a back four
- Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul, among others
- Forwards: Lionel Messi, leading the attack
Match statistics highlighted LAFC's efficiency: They held just 36.7% possession but outshot Miami 16-13, with 6 shots on target to Miami's 3. Expected goals (xG) favored LAFC 3.5-0.9, reflecting their clinical finishing. Miami completed more passes (775 to 338) but lacked penetration, with only 3 corners and no offsides called against them.
Team and Player Background
Inter Miami entered the match as reigning MLS Cup holders, having clinched the 2025 title with a 3-1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps, featuring goals from Rodrigo De Paul and Tadeo Allende. Led by Messi, the Herons boast a roster of global stars, but injuries and integration issues have plagued their preseason.
LAFC, meanwhile, bolstered their squad with high-profile additions like Son Heung-Min from Tottenham Hotspur, aiming to reclaim their spot among MLS elites after a solid 2025 campaign. Standout performers included Bouanga (goal and assist) and Son (assist), while Messi's influence was muted, earning him modest ratings in post-match assessments.
Why This News Matters
This result sends shockwaves through MLS, exposing vulnerabilities in Inter Miami's defense and attack despite their star power. For LAFC, it's a statement win, marking their ninth straight season-opening victory and boosting early momentum in a competitive Western Conference.
Potential Impact and Next Steps
Inter Miami must regroup quickly, with head coach Javier Mascherano facing scrutiny over tactical choices. Their next fixture could see adjustments to address defensive lapses. LAFC, riding high, will look to build on this in upcoming matches, potentially positioning themselves as title contenders.
LAFC's emphatic win over Inter Miami not only spoils the champions' opener but signals a wide-open 2026 MLS season, where experience and execution could trump star-studded lineups.