Record Crowd Sees LAFC Rout Inter Miami in MLS Opener

Lionel Messi and Son Heung-min face off as LAFC sets new attendance mark

Feb. 22, 2026 at 10:05am

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A record crowd of 75,673 fans packed the Los Angeles Coliseum to witness LAFC's dominant 3-0 victory over Inter Miami in the opening match of the 2026 MLS season. The match featured a showdown between superstars Lionel Messi and Son Heung-min, and saw LAFC's Denis Bouanga, Nathan Ordaz, and David Martínez all find the back of the net for the home side.

Why it matters

The massive turnout for the season opener highlights the growing popularity of MLS, with the league setting a new attendance record for an opening weekend match. The match-up between Messi and Son also drew significant interest, showcasing the league's ability to attract global soccer stars.

The details

LAFC opted to host the marquee season opener at the historic Los Angeles Coliseum instead of their usual home stadium, BMO Stadium. The decision paid off, as the crowd of 75,673 fans set a new MLS record for an opening weekend match, and was the second-highest standalone attendance in league history. LAFC dominated the match, with Bouanga, Ordaz, and Martínez all scoring to secure the 3-0 victory over Inter Miami.

  • The match took place on Saturday, February 22, 2026 to kick off the 31st MLS season.
  • LAFC will next face Honduran side Real España in the Concacaf Champions Cup on Tuesday, February 25, 2026.

The players

Lionel Messi

Legendary Argentine forward who made his MLS debut for Inter Miami in the season opener.

Son Heung-min

South Korean forward who provided an assist for LAFC in the match.

Denis Bouanga

LAFC forward who scored one of the team's three goals in the victory.

Nathan Ordaz

Young LAFC midfielder who found the back of the net in the dominant win.

David Martínez

LAFC youngster who also scored a goal in the 3-0 rout of Inter Miami.

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What they’re saying

“The atmosphere in the stadium was nice for the team. We know the fans are coming to support us. It's good for my teammates and for me as we push in the season.”

— Denis Bouanga, LAFC Forward (Instagram)

What’s next

LAFC will look to build on their dominant season-opening win when they face Honduran side Real España in the Concacaf Champions Cup on Tuesday, February 25, 2026, before returning to MLS play against the Houston Dynamo on February 28. Inter Miami, meanwhile, will aim to bounce back when they take on Florida rivals Orlando City on March 1.

The takeaway

The record-breaking crowd and star-studded matchup between Messi and Son underscores the growing popularity and global appeal of MLS. LAFC's convincing victory on the big stage demonstrated the team's strength and the league's ability to attract top talent and passionate supporters.