MLS: Bouanga kicks off 2026 in style as LAFC dominate Messi’s Inter Miami

Expectations are sky high for Los Angeles FC this season and the Black and Gold got their 2026 Major League Soccer campaign off to a dream start on Saturday evening with a 3-0 victory over Lionel Messi and Inter Miami.

BOUANGAAAAA 🔥 pic.twitter.com/BGOHiF5MTE

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) February 22, 2026

Denis Bouanga picked up where he left off after scoring 26 goals last season in league play. With his team up 1-0 in the 73rd minute, the Gabonese superstar got on the end of a long ball and went around goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair to put the hosts beyond reach.

The MLS season kicked off on Saturday and defending champions Miami were sent a firm message by a team that is considered their greatest challenge to a repeat. Dynamic duo Son Heung-Min and Bouanga both contributed, with the Korean providing an assist on the opening goal from David Martínez.

Bouanga completed a MOTM performance by setting up Nathan Ordaz for one more goal in stoppage time.

Bouanga –> Ordaz

GAME OVER. LAFC take down Miami. pic.twitter.com/c0MUCrbNfo

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) February 22, 2026

The team’s potential was on full display earlier this week following a 6-1 drubbing in Honduras against Real España in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, and the club are showing the ability to compete for domestic and continental honors. Bouanga produced a hat-trick in the victory.

Denis Bouanga x3️⚽️ is named The Superior Player of the Match presented by Michelob Ultra ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/Mru5IMOfoX

— Concacaf Champions Cup (@TheChampions) February 18, 2026

Last campaign, Bouanga was tied for second in goals during the regular season, five shy of Messi. 2026 World Cup qualifying duty with Gabon prevented the former St. Étienne star an opportunity to keep pace with the Argentine legend during the final fixtures.