Son Heung-min is rebelling against the elimination of the best 11... Why did Messi fail

*This content was translated by AI.

For Lionel Messi (39, Inter Miami), the "God of Football," the opening game of the Major League Soccer (MLS) was a nightmare. It was completely erased by the strong pressure of LA FC led by Son Heung-min (34, LA FC).

LA FC won 3-0 at the opening home game of the first round of the "2026 Season MLS" against Miami at the Memorial Coliseum in LA, California on the 22nd (Korea time).

The match drew great attention as Son Heung-min and Messi faced off. Son Heung-min, who started as a central striker, was active in the 38th minute of the first half by helping David Martinez score the first goal. Messi, on the other hand, remained silent.

According to soccer statistics media "Foot Mob," Son Heung-min played about 88 minutes before being replaced in the 43rd minute of the second half, recording two shots, three chances, and 86% (25/29 passes) success rate.

After the game, the MLS secretariat released the best 11 in the first round on its official social media, but Son Heung-min's award was unfortunately canceled. Of course, there was no name for Messi, who did not perform well.

Criticism against Messi erupted locally. Local newspapers such as the Miami Herald pointed to Messi's thorough isolation as the cause of the complete defeat in the opening game. The media pointed out, "The Miami midfield was completely deleted by LA FC's breathtaking pressure tactics," adding, "Messi drifted off the ground throughout the game without even getting a proper chance to catch the ball."

In fact, Messi did not have a unique flash dribble breakthrough or sharp pass on the day. On the other hand, Son Heung-min played a significant role as a lubricant for the attack, helping the first winning goal.

In particular, Son Heung-min actively participated in defense. The dedicated forward pressure of the LA FC offense, led by Son Heung-min, prevented Miami's build-up from the start, which soon led to "Messi isolation."

The British 'Guardian' said, "Messi played full season but was tied up without scoring a single attack point. Miami's collapse in organizational power was in stark contrast to well-trained LA FC," he said.

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*This content was translated by AI.