LAFC Dominates MLS Cup Champs in Matchday 1 Rout

Denis Bouanga and Stephen Eustáquio lead LAFC to 3-0 win over Inter Miami CF in front of record crowd

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The 2026 MLS season kicked off with a bang, as LAFC cruised to a dominant 3-0 victory over reigning MLS Cup champions Inter Miami CF in front of a record 75,673 fans at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Denis Bouanga led the way with a goal and an assist, while offseason arrival Stephen Eustáquio also contributed an assist in Marc Dos Santos' impressive LAFC managerial debut.

Why it matters

LAFC's decisive win over the defending champions sets an early tone for the new season, showcasing the team's offensive firepower and Marc Dos Santos' tactical acumen. The record-setting crowd also highlights the growing popularity of MLS in Los Angeles.

The details

LAFC's dominant performance was fueled by standout displays from several players. Denis Bouanga scored a goal and provided an assist, while Stephen Eustáquio, the team's offseason acquisition, also recorded an assist. The Red Bull New York teenage duo of 17-year-old forward Julian Hall (2 goals) and 16-year-old midfielder Adri Mehmeti (1 assist) also made headlines with their impressive MLS debuts in a 2-1 win over Orlando City.

  • The 2026 MLS season kicked off on Matchday 1.
  • The LAFC vs. Inter Miami CF match was played on February 23, 2026.

The players

Denis Bouanga

LAFC midfielder who scored a goal and provided an assist in the team's 3-0 win over Inter Miami CF.

Stephen Eustáquio

LAFC midfielder and offseason acquisition who recorded an assist in the team's dominant victory.

Julian Hall

17-year-old forward for Red Bull New York who scored a brace in his MLS debut, helping the team to a 2-1 win over Orlando City.

Adri Mehmeti

16-year-old midfielder for Red Bull New York who provided an assist in his MLS debut, contributing to the team's 2-1 victory over Orlando City.

Marc Dos Santos

LAFC manager who led the team to a convincing win over the defending MLS Cup champions in his league debut.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must have put on a proper Hollywood show for the fans today. The boys were fantastic from start to finish.”

— Marc Dos Santos, LAFC Manager (mlssoccer.com)

What’s next

LAFC will look to build on their impressive Matchday 1 performance as they continue their quest for the MLS Cup, while the reigning champions Inter Miami CF will aim to bounce back in their next match.

The takeaway

LAFC's dominant win over the defending MLS Cup champions on Matchday 1 showcases the team's offensive firepower and the potential of their new manager, Marc Dos Santos, to lead the club to success in the 2026 season.