Nashville's new-look attack shines, LAFC impress in win over Inter Miami

Key takeaways from the opening weekend of the 2026 MLS season

Feb. 23, 2026 at 8:34pm

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Matchday 1 of the 2026 MLS season is in the books, and there were several key takeaways. Nashville SC's new-look attack featuring Hany Mukhtar, Sam Surridge, and Cristian Espinoza overwhelmed the New England Revolution in a 4-1 win. LAFC also impressed with a 3-0 victory over reigning MLS Cup champions Inter Miami, showcasing a well-rounded team that can defend in a compact shape and counter-attack effectively. Meanwhile, Red Bull New York started three teenagers - including 16-year-old Adri Mehmeti - in their 2-1 win over Orlando City, demonstrating the club's commitment to youth development. Finally, FC Cincinnati found solutions without injured star Evander, with young defensive midfielder Samuel Gidi playing a key role in their 1-0 win over Atlanta United.

Why it matters

The opening weekend results provided early indications of how some of the league's top teams and new-look squads will perform in 2026. Nashville's attacking firepower, LAFC's defensive solidity, Red Bull New York's youth movement, and FC Cincinnati's depth all emerged as storylines worth watching as the season progresses.

The details

Nashville SC's new-look attack featuring Hany Mukhtar, Sam Surridge, and Cristian Espinoza overwhelmed the New England Revolution in a 4-1 win. Espinoza was effective from the right wing, while 21-year-old Costa Rican winger Warren Madrigal had a goal and two assists. LAFC impressed in their 3-0 win over Inter Miami, with assistant-turned-head coach Marc Dos Santos' team defending in a compact 4-4-2 shape and then leveraging that into dangerous counterattacks, including a goal from Denis Bouanga. Red Bull New York started three teenagers - 16-year-old Adri Mehmeti, 17-year-old Matthew Dos Santos, and 17-year-old Julian Hall - in their 2-1 win over Orlando City, with the young trio all impressing. When Evander exited FC Cincinnati's game against Atlanta United with an injury, defensive midfielder Samuel Gidi stepped up, playing a key role in the team's 1-0 victory.

  • On February 22, 2026, Nashville SC defeated the New England Revolution 4-1.
  • On February 22, 2026, LAFC defeated Inter Miami 3-0.
  • On February 21, 2026, Red Bull New York defeated Orlando City 2-1.
  • On February 21, 2026, FC Cincinnati defeated Atlanta United 1-0.

The players

Hany Mukhtar

A key attacking player for Nashville SC.

Sam Surridge

A striker for Nashville SC who scored two goals in their 4-1 win.

Cristian Espinoza

An attacking player for Nashville SC who was effective from the right wing.

Marc Dos Santos

The assistant-turned-head coach of LAFC who led the team to a 3-0 win over Inter Miami.

Adri Mehmeti

A 16-year-old defensive midfielder for Red Bull New York who had an assist in his MLS debut.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.