Sport|FootballLionel Messi, Inter Miami routed by LAFC in MLS season openerThe Inter Miami player began his club’s MLS Cup title defence with a crushing away loss to rivals Los Angeles FC.
Los Angeles FC secured a 3-0 victory over Inter Miami in their season opener on Saturday, Mar 5, 2026. The match took place at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, attracting a crowd of 75,673, the second-largest in Major League Soccer history for a…
Los Angeles FC secured a 3-0 victory over Inter Miami in their season opener on Saturday, Mar 5, 2026. The match took place at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, attracting a crowd of 75,673, the second-largest in Major League Soccer history for a regular-season match not associated with a double-header.
First Goal: David Martinez scored in the 38th minute, assisted by Son Heung-Min, marking his eighth career MLS goal. Second Goal: Denis Bouanga scored in the 73rd minute following a misjudgment by goalkeeper Dayne St Clair. Third Goal: Substitute Nathan Ordaz scored in the fourth minute of second-half stoppage time, assisted by Bouanga.
Despite Inter Miami holding 63% of the possession, LAFC led in shots (16-13) and shots on target (6-3). LAFC's Hugo Lloris made three saves, contributing to the team's clean sheet. Lionel Messi participated in the match, but Inter Miami was unable to score.
Los Angeles FC secured a 3-0 victory over Inter Miami in their season opener on Saturday, Mar 5, 2026.
Timothy Tillman's defensive efforts were pivotal in the lead-up to the first goal, while German Berterame made his debut for Inter Miami.
Messi was unable to score against the LAFC defense in the opening fixture of the 2026 season.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
