Messi Held Back by Suárez After Furious Reaction as LAFC Thrash Inter Miami 3–0 in MLS Opener

By Rasheed Adewuyi, New York

Inter Miami CF captain Lionel Messi had to be restrained by teammate Luis Suárez after appearing to angrily confront the referee following his side’s crushing 3–0 defeat to Los Angeles FC in their Major League Soccer season opener.

The Argentine superstar cut a visibly frustrated figure at full-time after Miami were comprehensively outplayed in Los Angeles, with reports indicating Messi attempted to follow match official Pierre-Luc Lauziere before Suárez intervened and calmed him down on the pitch.

Los Angeles FC delivered a statement performance in front of their home fans, sealing victory through goals from David Martínez Morales, star forward Denis Bouanga, and young prospect Nathan Ordaz.

Bouanga, one of MLS’s most consistent attacking threats, doubled LAFC’s advantage with a clinical finish, while Ordaz added the third to complete a dominant night for the hosts.

The result marked a nightmare start to the new Major League Soccer campaign for Miami, who struggled defensively and failed to convert their chances despite flashes of creativity from Messi.

Messi remained Miami’s most dangerous player, creating several opportunities and attempting to inspire a comeback, but he lacked the support and cutting edge required to break down LAFC’s organized defense.

Miami’s new signings endured particularly difficult debuts, with the team showing defensive vulnerability and limited cohesion throughout the match.

Messi’s post-match anger reflected the broader frustration within the Miami squad after a humbling defeat that exposed early-season weaknesses.

Suárez’s intervention ensured the situation did not escalate further, escorting his longtime friend and former Barcelona teammate away from the officials.

### Early warning for Miami’s ambitions

The heavy loss raises immediate questions about Inter Miami’s readiness to compete at the highest level this season, especially given the expectations surrounding Messi and the club’s high-profile squad.

For LAFC, however, the emphatic victory reinforces their status as serious contenders, while Miami must regroup quickly to avoid further setbacks in the weeks ahead.