Lionel Messi, Inter Miami routed by LAFC in MLS season opener
Al Jazeera
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami suffered a disappointing start to their MLS Cup title defense, falling 5-0 to LAFC in their season opener. The match, held at Banc of California Stadium, saw LAFC dominate from start to finish, with key contributions from players like Víctor Vazquez and Ilkay Gündogan. Messi, who had been heavily anticipated as a game-changer for Inter Miami, struggled to make an impact in his MLS debut, highlighting the challenges of adapting to a new league and style of play.
The loss was particularly significant given Inter Miami's status as defending champions and their high-profile roster, which includes not only Messi but also other international stars like Federico Bernesio. LAFC, on the other hand, showcased a well-rounded performance, with their defense limiting Inter Miami's chances and their attack capitalizing on opportunities. The victory marked a strong start to LAFC's MLS campaign, reigniting the rivalry between two of the league's most prominent teams.
This result underscores the competitive nature of Major League Soccer and raises questions about Inter Miami's ability to maintain their title defense. Messi's performance has sparked debates about his integration into the team and whether he can replicate his world-class form in MLS. Meanwhile, LAFC's dominance highlights their potential as serious contenders for this season's title.
For readers interested in global sports and cultural trends, this match highlights the growing international appeal of MLS. With star players like Messi joining the league, the sport is gaining more attention worldwide, bridging gaps between traditional European football and North American leagues. The outcome of this game also reflects the challenges faced by high-profile teams when entering new competitions, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, adaptation, and strategic play in achieving success.
In summary, while Inter Miami's loss was a setback for their title defense, it also serves as a reminder of the league's competitiveness and the hurdles faced by even the most accomplished players when transitioning to a new league. As the MLS season progresses, all eyes will remain on Messi's integration into
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/22/2026