MLS Debuts: Standout Performances from Matchday 1

From 16-year-old Adri Mehmeti to veteran Guilherme, the opening weekend of the 2026 MLS season saw several new faces make an immediate impact.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Whether it's an 18-year-old scoring in his first professional game or a Designated Player paying immediate dividends, the opening weekend of the 2026 MLS season had no shortage of strong club debuts. Standout performances came from the likes of 16-year-old Adri Mehmeti of Red Bull New York, Guilherme of Houston Dynamo FC, Tai Baribo of D.C. United, and more.

Why it matters

The influx of young talent and high-profile offseason signings across MLS showcases the league's continued growth and ability to attract top players from around the world. These debut performances highlight the exciting future of the league as it aims to develop homegrown stars while also bringing in established international talent.

The details

Adri Mehmeti, the 16-year-old Red Bull New York homegrown midfielder, made a stellar debut, playing a crucial 76-minute role in his team's 2-1 win over Orlando City. Guilherme, Houston Dynamo FC's new Designated Player, scored a brace in their 2-1 comeback victory over Chicago Fire FC. Tai Baribo, one of D.C. United's new DP strikers, netted the game-winner in their 1-0 defeat of the Philadelphia Union. Other standouts included Warren Madrigal of Nashville SC, Eustáquio of LAFC, Bassett of the Portland Timbers, and Bryan Zamblé of San Diego FC.

  • On February 22, 2026, the 2026 MLS season kicked off with Matchday 1 action.
  • Several of the debut performances highlighted occurred on February 22, 2026.

The players

Adri Mehmeti

A 16-year-old homegrown midfielder for Red Bull New York who made an impressive debut in their 2-1 win over Orlando City.

Guilherme

A Designated Player striker for Houston Dynamo FC who scored a brace in their 2-1 comeback victory over Chicago Fire FC.

Tai Baribo

A Designated Player striker for D.C. United who scored the game-winning goal in their 1-0 defeat of the Philadelphia Union.

Warren Madrigal

A midfielder for Nashville SC who had 1 goal and 2 assists in their 4-1 win over the New England Revolution.

Bryan Zamblé

An 18-year-old winger for San Diego FC who scored in his MLS debut, a 5-0 win over CF Montréal.

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What they’re saying

“His work rate, commitment to the group, the goal, some other moments where he's just strong and holds up the ball and gives us that extra piece, all very good.”

— Greg Vanney, Head Coach, LA Galaxy (mlssoccer.com)

What’s next

Several marquee offseason signings, such as Minnesota United FC's James Rodríguez and San Jose Earthquakes' Timo Werner, are still awaiting their MLS debuts in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The standout debut performances across MLS on opening weekend showcase the league's continued ability to attract top young talent as well as established international stars. These new faces are poised to make an immediate impact and contribute to the growing excitement and competitiveness of the 2026 MLS season.