Lionel Messi's Inter Miami lose MLS season opener to LAFC as one big issue highlights Herons' lack of fluidity
CBS Sports
by
Chuck Booth
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami suffered a 3-0 loss in their MLS season opener against LAFC, highlighting the impact of Sergio Busquets’ retirement and the challenges of integrating new players. The match, held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum with an attendance of 75,673—second highest in MLS history—saw LAFC dominate, with goals from David Martinez, Nathan Ordaz, and Denis Bouanga securing the victory. Inter Miami struggled to maintain defensive stability and midfield control, issues that were magnified by Busquets’ absence, who was known for his leadership and ability to organize the team.
LAFC’s strong performance showcased their ability to exploit gaps in Inter Miami’s defense, particularly during Bouanga’s goal when no Inter Miami player tracked back effectively. This lack of cohesion and defensive organization was evident throughout the match, leaving Messi visibly frustrated. The reigning MLS champions also faced physicality from LAFC, which added to their struggles on the night.
Inter Miami’s reliance on new players and a revamped roster became apparent as they struggled to adapt to LAFC’s high-intensity play. While Rodrigo De Paul is expected to step into Busquets’ role, the team’s integration process will likely lead to growing pains. The loss raises questions about how quickly Inter Miami can rebuild their midfield and regain their defensive solidity.
For LAFC, the victory not only marked a strong start to their season but also positioned them as potential contenders in MLS. With a new coach, Marc Dos Santos, leading the charge, LAFC demonstrated their ability to compete against one of the league’s top teams. The match also highlighted the importance of tactical discipline and defensive organization, which were key factors in securing the three-goal margin.
The outcome underscores the challenges Inter Miami faces as they transition without Busquets and adjust to new management. While Messi remains a key asset, his performance in this game emphasized the need for better team cohesion and defensive resilience. For LAFC, the win
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/22/2026