LAFC VS INTER MIAMI
LAFC- 3
INTER MIAMI- 0
In front of the second-largest crowd in MLS history, with 75,673 people attending the 2026 MLS season opener, it was truly a game that won’t be forgotten in United States soccer, as LAFC delivered a commanding performance against Inter Miami, with Messi and friends unable to execute against the Black and Gold.
From kickoff, the stadium was elevated with energy and excitement as LAFC played in a new stadium for the season opener across from BMO Stadium in a historic Southern California venue. It was also a great opener in which Inter Miami’s very own Lionel Messi took part, with many of his fans in attendance.
Both teams had many possessions and chances to score, but heading into halftime, David Martínez in the 38th minute culminated a goal assisted by Son Heung-min to lead at the end of the first half.
The second half proved that LAFC were the better team, leading it off despite Inter Miami having the most possession. The home team doubled its lead in the 73rd minute when Denis Bouanga finished clinically, again benefiting from strong interplay in the final third.
As the game was close to being finished Nathan Ordaz capped the night with a composed finish from coming off the bench sealing a 3–0 victory and triggering jubilant celebrations among the crowd.
Throughout the game LAFC defensively was disciplined, limiting Miami's attacking opportunities and maintaining compact lines that disrupted the visitors’ typically creative build-up play. Although all eyes were on Lionel Messi he was unable to convert possession into meaningful chances.
