MLS: Los Angeles FC thrash Inter Miami, Messi’s debut ends in heavy defeat | OneFootball

Lionel Messi's team lost to Los Angeles FC at the start of the season, and the Argentine captain played all 90 minutes after overcoming his muscle discomfort, in a crucial semester with the national team and the World Cup in mind.

The official debut of Lionel Messi in 2026 was not as expected. The Rosario native started and played the full 90 minutes in Inter Miami's 3-0 defeat to Los Angeles FC at the beginning of the new MLS season.

The presence of the Argentine captain was in doubt after the muscle discomfort that forced him to withdraw from the friendly against Independiente del Valle, but he ultimately made the starting eleven and gained some playing time in the first official match of the year.

A tough start for Las Garzas

The team managed by Javier Mascherano, which must defend the title won in 2025, was outplayed by a rival that made better use of its chances. Goals from David Martínez and Denis Bouanga, both on counterattacks, set the tone for the match, while Ordaz sealed the final 3-0 score near the end.

Messi shared the field from the start with Rodrigo De Paul and Silvetti, while Facundo Mura and Tadeo Allende came on in the second half. However, the pink team never managed to impose their style and created few dangerous chances.

A discreet debut for the captain

Individually, Messi had a cautious performance, with little contact with the ball and limited offensive support. His clearest chance was a shot that went just wide of the left corner.

Beyond the result, the match marked the beginning of an important semester for the Rosario native, who will look to maintain his competitive level as expectations grow regarding his possible presence at the next World Cup, which could make him the first footballer to play in six World Cups.

Inter Miami will now have the chance to bounce back in the next match, while the focus will remain on the Argentine captain's performance in a decisive year.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.