n a thrilling and record-breaking start to the 2026 MLS season, Los Angeles FC (LAFC) delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over defending MLS Cup champions Inter Miami CF on Saturday, February 21, at the iconic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, California.
This match marked LAFC’s first-ever game at the historic Coliseum, serving as their special home opener for the season. The venue, adjacent to LAFC’s usual BMO Stadium, provided an electric atmosphere with a massive crowd of 75,673 fans—the second-highest attendance in MLS history and the highest ever for an opening weekend game.
LAFC wasted no time asserting dominance. The breakthrough came in the 38th minute when forward David Martínez opened the scoring, assisted by star midfielder Son Heung-min and Stephen Eustáquio. The goal energized the Black & Gold faithful and set the tone for a one-sided affair.
The second half saw LAFC extend their lead in style. Denis Bouanga, a consistent threat, netted the second goal in the 73rd minute, capitalizing on LAFC’s attacking pressure. Then, in stoppage time, young forward Nathan Ordaz sealed the rout with a clinical finish in the 90+4th minute.
Inter Miami, featuring Lionel Messi—who played the full 90 minutes after returning from injury—struggled to create meaningful chances. The visitors were unable to find the net, as LAFC’s solid defense and dynamic midfield shut down threats effectively.
The win extends LAFC’s perfect record in MLS regular-season openers to 9-0-0, showcasing their consistency and readiness to challenge for major honors in 2026. For Inter Miami, the result was a disappointing start to their title defense.
This historic night at the Coliseum not only kicked off the season with fireworks but also highlighted LAFC’s growing stature in the league. The Black & Gold will look to build on this momentum as they pursue another successful campaign.
