LAFC vs Inter Miami preview for the start of the 2026-27 MLS season

A competitive finish and a new chapter

LAFC finished last season in third place in the Western Conference, advancing to the playoffs, where they were eliminated on penalties by runner-up Vancouver Whitecaps. Now, the Los Angeles club enters a new phase with significant changes.

For the 2026-27 season, the team introduces new head coach Marc Dos Santos and has strengthened the roster. Key additions include Heung Min Son, a contract extension for goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, the arrival of Jacob Shaffelburg from Nashville, and Canadian international Stephen Eustaquio.

A demanding schedule from the start

Before officially kicking off the MLS season, LAFC will play the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup away against Real España in Honduras, but attention is already focused on the league opener against the defending champions.

The match will take place on Saturday, February 21, at the LA Memorial Coliseum, setting the stage for an electric season opener.

Inter Miami with major changes

Inter Miami enters as the defending champion but with key roster adjustments. The departures of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, who retired after winning MLS, close an important chapter.

For the new season, the Florida club added Germán Berterame, extended Rodrigo De Paul’s contract, signed goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair following Ustari’s departure, and brought in Sergio Reguilón.

The big question: Lionel Messi

The main uncertainty for this match is the availability of Lionel Messi, who recently suffered an injury. His participation will depend on a medical evaluation in the coming days.

A defining opener

LAFC aims to improve on last season’s performance and show that the new project can compete at the highest level from the very first match. Facing the champion immediately will be a true test of character.

MLS matches can be watched on Apple TV.