The 2026 MLS season kicked off last weekend with an exhilarating opening that saw 46 goals across matches. That’s an impressive average of 3.07 goals per game, slightly above last year’s average. It certainly sets an exciting tone for the season ahead.
One of the standout matches featured the champion Inter Miami facing off against LAFC at the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. A record crowd of 75,673 watched LAFC secure a solid 3-0 victory. The presence of global stars like Lionel Messi and Son Heung-min made the occasion even more thrilling.
LAFC’s quick transitions, led by Son and Denis Bouanga, meant they needed just 34.5% possession to create multiple scoring chances. Coach Marc Dos Santos praised his team’s defensive strategies, highlighting their ability to shut down Miami’s offense. With Messi now without his former teammates, he will face tougher defenses this season.
As history shows, only three teams have managed to win back-to-back MLS titles, the last being LA Galaxy in 2011-2012. Miami faces a tough challenge ahead if they aim to repeat their success.
Another highlight was New York Red Bull’s surprising win against Orlando City. Under first-year coach Michael Bradley, his youthful squad was the youngest in MLS history to take the field, impressing many with their performance despite hectic finishing. Bradley praised their competitive spirit and aims to instill a forward-thinking approach to the game. The team certainly grabbed attention, proving to be a dark horse for the season.
The match between D.C. United and Philadelphia Union had its own drama. Tai Baribo, who recently transferred to D.C. from Philadelphia, scored the game’s only goal in a tense match. D.C. earned a long-awaited win over Philly, showcasing tenacity in a battle largely dominated by their rivals in previous seasons.
With the FIFA World Cup approaching in 2026, many players are keen to impress their national team coaches early in the season. Cincy’s Latte Lath and FCD’s Petar Musa are among those displaying standout performances, aiming to solidify their spots in upcoming tournaments. Musa scored twice in a tight win against Toronto FC, demonstrating skill and determination.
In St. Louis, Marcel Hartel made headlines by scoring the season’s first goal in a match that ended in a draw with Charlotte FC. New coach Yoann Damet’s strategies seemed promising, as St. Louis outshot their opponents significantly.
Lastly, Nashville SC dominated New England Revolution 4-1 with impressive teamwork and solid performances from players like Cristian Espinoza.
As the season unfolds, fans can expect more thrilling moments, surprises, and emerging talent as teams vie for dominance in the league.
For more updates, you can follow MLS on their official website here.
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National Writer: Charles Boehm,MLS is Back,SendToNews,LAFCvsMIA 02-21-2026,ORLvsRBNY 02-21-2026,DCvsPHI 02-21-2026,CINvsATL 02-21-2026,HOUvsCHI 02-21-2026,DALvsTOR 02-21-2026,STLvsCLT 02-21-2026,SDvsMTL 02-21-2026,PORvsCLB 02-21-2026,NSHvsNE 02-21-2026
