Son Heung-min Leads LAFC to Victory Over Inter Miami, Eyes Second MLS Win

Los Angeles FC (LAFC) began their 2026 Major League Soccer (MLS) season with a dominant 3-0 victory over Inter Miami, fueled by a strong performance from forward Son Heung-min. LAFC now prepares to face Houston Dynamo, where Son is identified as the primary threat.

LAFC Dominates Inter Miami in Season Opener

On February 21, 2026, LAFC defeated Inter Miami 3-0 at the LA Coliseum in front of 75,673 fans, the second-highest attendance in league history ESPN. Son Heung-min played a key role, providing an assist for David Martínez’s opening goal in the 37th minute. Denis Bouanga and Nathan Ordaz added goals to secure the win.

Lionel Messi, playing his first competitive game of the year ahead of Argentina’s World Cup title defense, struggled to make a significant impact. He missed a scoring opportunity in the first half ESPN.

Houston Dynamo Identifies Son as Key Threat

LAFC will face the Houston Dynamo on March 1st (10:30 a.m. Korean time) in their second regular season match. The Houston Dynamo have highlighted Son Heung-min as the most dangerous player on the LAFC roster, alongside goalkeeper Hugo Lloris and former MLS Golden Boot winner Denis Bouanga Chosun.

This will be Son Heung-min’s first appearance at Shell Energy Stadium against Houston Dynamo while playing for LAFC Chosun. Houston won their season opener 2-1 against Chicago on February 22nd and finished 12th in the league last season with a record of 9 wins, 10 draws, and 15 losses.

Son’s Strong Start to the Season

LAFC has won its last three official matches, including a 7-1 victory over Real Spain in the CONCACAF Champions Cup Chosun. Son Heung-min had an impressive performance in the CONCACAF Champions Cup match against Real Spain, scoring one goal and providing three assists in 39 minutes of play. He received ratings of 9 from both Sofa Score and Foot Mob Chosun.

He also provided an assist in the MLS opener against Inter Miami.

Managing Son’s Workload

LAFC coach Marc Dos Santos has been carefully managing Son Heung-min’s workload, limiting his playing time in the second leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup to 45 minutes to facilitate him uncover his rhythm after an incomplete preseason ESPN. Dos Santos emphasized the importance of building Son’s fitness and game rhythm.