Heung-min Son vs Lionel Messi: Comparing MLS’s Top Superstars
Major League Soccer (MLS) is set to feature a much-anticipated match on Saturday, as LAFC hosts Inter Miami CF at the iconic LA Memorial Coliseum. This historic venue will witness a stunning showdown between two of soccer’s biggest stars: Heung-min Son and Lionel Messi.
Historic Venue and Event
The LA Memorial Coliseum, which is preparing for its third Olympic Games in 2028, has long been a site of notable sporting events. This match marks a significant milestone, as it will be the first-ever MLS game hosted at the Coliseum.
Approximately 60,000 fans are expected to attend, showcasing the immense popularity of both players. This attendance is noteworthy, especially when compared to LAFC’s record of 71,189 fans from 2022 during a match against Club América.
Player Overview: Heung-min Son vs. Lionel Messi
- Heung-min Son
- Market Value: €17.00m
- Position: Left Winger
- Contract: Until December 31, 2027
- Goals/Assists: 13 goals and 7 assists in 14 games
- Lionel Messi
- Market Value: €15.00m
- Position: Right Winger
- Contract: Until December 31, 2028
- Goals/Assists: 77 goals and 44 assists in 88 games
Market Value and Player Impact
Despite being in their 30s, both Son and Messi rank among the most valuable players in the MLS. Son is currently valued at €17 million, while Messi sits at €15 million. They are recognized as elite players, especially among those aged 32 and above, with Son ranked eighth and Messi at thirteenth worldwide.
Previous Encounters
The upcoming match will mark the third time these two legends will face off. Their previous meetings took place during the 2018/19 UEFA Champions League, where Messi’s Barcelona emerged victorious in one match, winning 4-2, and drew the other 1-1. Both players showcased their talents; Messi scored twice, while Son contributed with an assist.
Ambitions for the Season
Heung-min Son joined LAFC last season, creating significant buzz by breaking jersey sales records across various sports in the U.S. Meanwhile, Messi has made a tremendous impact since his arrival in 2023, leading Inter Miami to an MLS Cup title.
With both players showing remarkable form and talent, this clash at the Coliseum is expected to be a thrilling encounter in the MLS season. The stakes are high as both teams aim for glory in this competitive league.
