Lionel Messi's MLS debut ended in a 3-0 loss to LAFC as Inter Miami struggled against a determined LAFC side. The 38-year-old, recovering from a February hamstring injury, appeared off his game in the first half, with imprecise touches and poor shooting.

Miami couldn't gain momentum until after LAFC took a 1-0 lead, with Son Heung-min scoring. Messi's performance raised immediate questions about his World Cup readiness, though coach Javier Mascherano cautioned against over-interpreting one game. Miami lost 3-0, with goals from Denis Bouanga and Nathan Ordaz sealing the defeat. The result, while disappointing, was framed by Mascherano as not entirely misleading, highlighting areas needing improvement rather than just the scoreline. Messi's fitness and form remain key concerns for Argentina's World Cup hopes as the clock ticks down.