LAFC delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over defending champions Inter Miami in the 2026 MLS opener, as Lionel Messi’s side struggled to break down a disciplined Los Angeles defense.
LAFC secured a convincing 3-0 win against Inter Miami to kick off the 2026 MLS season.
David Martinez opened the scoring after a midfield error by Rodrigo De Paul, followed by a composed solo effort and chip from Denis Bouanga.
Despite Lionel Messi’s creative efforts alongside Germán Berterame, Miami failed to capitalize on their chances, eventually conceding a late third goal to Nathan Ordaz.
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano had confirmed Messi’s fitness pre-match, stating, “Messi is fine; he’s been training at the same level as the rest of the team all week.”
However, the visitors were outmatched by LAFC’s clinical counterattacks and the partnership of Bouanga and Heung-Min Son.
The result leaves the defending MLS Cup holders searching for offensive solutions early in the new campaign.