The 31st edition of Major League Soccer (MLS) commenced with Inter Miami facing a challenging match against Los Angeles FC (LAFC), attracting a record crowd of 75,673 spectators, the largest for an opening day in MLS history. As the league grows and prepares for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, this inaugural day was viewed on high-quality TV through the Apple TV application, marking a significant shift in how fans can access matches without extra subscriptions.

Inter Miami, the reigning champions from the previous MLS Cup, faced LAFC in what many termed the toughest matchup of the calendar. The team struggled on the field, with midfielder Rodrigo De Paul inadvertently giving away a goal, and Lionel Messi's on-field frustration with the officiating adding to the drama. Fans and analysts alike had high expectations for the match, especially considering Messi’s star power, but the results fell short of those hopes, setting a challenging tone for the season ahead.

The outcome of this debut match not only puts pressure on Inter Miami but also raises questions about their preparation and strategies as they aim to defend their title in a league that continues to expand its global appeal. As soccer in the U.S. evolves, the performance of teams like LAFC, which showcased their strength on the field, reflects the competitive landscape of MLS and the emphasis on international talent and quality gameplay during this season and beyond.