Messi and Son Set to Clash in MLS Opener – Inter Miami Defends Title Against LAFC
The Major League Soccer season kicks off Saturday night with a blockbuster matchup as defending champions Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, visit Los Angeles FC, featuring Son Heung-Min. The game, moved to the larger Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, promises to be a spectacle for fans.
Messi Declared Fit for Season Opener
Concerns surrounding Messi’s availability were alleviated as Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed the Argentine superstar is fine
and has been training at the same level as the rest of the team all week
. This comes after a mild hamstring injury forced the postponement of a preseason friendly.
ESPN – “Messi is fine; he’s been training at the same level as the rest of the team all week,” said Mascherano on Friday. “He has done it in a quality way. He has had very positive feelings. So, he’s going away well prepared, just like the rest of the team.”
Messi suffered the injury during a preseason game against Barcelona SC on February 7, but has since returned to full training. Mascherano added that all players who traveled with the team
will be available for selection, including newly signed players Germán Berterame and Tadeo Allende.
Team Updates and Preparations
Inter Miami’s preparations weren’t without challenges. A muscle strain for Messi led to the rescheduling of a friendly against Independiente del Valle to February 26. The team also saw a postponement of their final preseason friendly in Puerto Rico due to Messi’s injury.
Mascherano acknowledged the strength of the opposition, stating that both Inter Miami and Los Angeles FC should be contenders
based on their caliber of players.
Match Details
- Teams: Inter Miami vs. Los Angeles FC
- Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026
- Time: 11:30 PM (Argentine Time)
- Location: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- Broadcast: Apple TV
Looking Ahead
This match marks the beginning of a crucial season for Inter Miami, as they aim to defend their MLS title and compete in the Concacaf Champions Cup. The club’s success will heavily rely on Messi’s continued fitness and form, alongside the contributions of their new signings.
Stay tuned to 247sports.news for continued coverage of Inter Miami and the MLS season!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Lionel Messi playing in the game? Yes, Javier Mascherano has confirmed Messi is available for selection.
- Where is the game being played? The match will be held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
- What time does the game start? The game starts at 11:30 PM (Argentine Time).