LAFC Make Statement in Season Opener, Rout Reigning Champs 3–0 in Historic Setting

LOS ANGELES — In a commanding display that set the tone for the 2026 MLS season, Los Angeles FC delivered a statement performance with a 3–0 victory over defending champions Inter Miami CF in front of a record crowd at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The matchup, headlined by global icons Son Heung-min and Lionel Messi, drew 75,673 fans — the largest opening weekend attendance in league history and the second-highest for any regular-season MLS game.

 

 

From the early stages, LAFC took control of the contest with purpose and precision. The breakthrough came in the 37th minute when Son Heung-min teed up David Martínez, who calmly slotted home from close range to put the hosts ahead.

 

 

The second half saw LAFC’s momentum swell as Denis Bouanga doubled the advantage in the 73rd minute, converting after a smart build-up that exposed Miami’s defence. Bouanga’s performance was pivotal, combining vision with clinical finishing to keep the pressure on throughout.

 

 

Source : Ballocentre.com

Images : Getty, ESPN FC

 

Mbokazi's first offical game in MLS!

South African defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi played his first official Major League Soccer match this weekend, starting for Chicago Fire in their season opener against the Houston Dynamo.

 

Match Recap

 

Chicago Fire took the lead in the first half through Hugo Cuypers, but Houston rallied after the break.

 

Brazilian midfielder Guilherme equalized before the Dynamo sealed a 2‑1 victory.

Mbokazi impressed with several goal‑saving interventions, showing his recovery pace and aerial strength. Despite the defeat, his performance drew praise for defensive composure and adaptability in a new league.

 

 

He was substituted in the 88th minute, replaced by fellow South African Puso Dithejane, who also made his debut.

 

 

 

Source : Ballocentre.com

Images : Getty, ESPN FC

 

Mbokazi's first offical game in MLS!

South African defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi played his first official Major League Soccer match this weekend, starting for Chicago Fire in their season opener against the Houston Dynamo.

 

Match Recap

 

Chicago Fire took the lead in the first half through Hugo Cuypers, but Houston rallied after the break.

 

Brazilian midfielder Guilherme equalized before the Dynamo sealed a 2‑1 victory.

Mbokazi impressed with several goal‑saving interventions, showing his recovery pace and aerial strength. Despite the defeat, his performance drew praise for defensive composure and adaptability in a new league.

 

 

He was substituted in the 88th minute, replaced by fellow South African Puso Dithejane, who also made his debut.

 

 

 

Source : Ballocentre.com

Images : Getty, ESPN FC, Soccerbeatza Instagram