Son Heung-min’s Jersey Request Granted, But Faces Criticism in 0-3 Loss
Maximiliano Falcon of Inter Miami successfully requested Son Heung-min’s jersey following the ‘2026 MLS Season Opening Match’ held on October 22, 2023, at the LA Memorial Coliseum. Los Angeles FC (LAFC) triumphed over Inter Miami with a decisive 3-0 victory, capturing significant attention due to the high-profile matchup between soccer legends Son Heung-min and Lionel Messi. Both players are regarded as top stars in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Record Attendance at MLS Opener
The opening match witnessed a remarkable turnout, with 75,673 spectators, setting a new attendance record for an MLS season opener. This clash not only highlighted the excitement surrounding the league’s start but also showcased the global interest in Messi and Son’s performance.
Key Match Highlights
- Match Date: October 22, 2023
- Final Score: LAFC 3, Inter Miami 0
- Son Heung-min’s Contributions:
- One assist in the 37th minute on a goal by Martinez.
- 88 minutes of play with two shots and three key passes.
- Messi’s Performance: Played full time with six attempts but no goals.
Controversy Surrounding Jersey Exchange
After the game, Falcon expressed a strong desire to swap jerseys with Son. This request, made public during the match, received mixed reactions. While Falcon successfully obtained the coveted jersey, some Miami fans criticized his timing, feeling it was inappropriate given their team’s defeat.
Fan Reactions
Criticism arose particularly from supporters of Inter Miami. The timing of Falcon’s jersey exchange was scrutinized, highlighting the frustration surrounding the 0-3 loss. Fans felt that focusing on a jersey swap during a challenging match detracted from the team’s defeat.
In summary, while the match celebrated Son Heung-min’s skills and established a new attendance record, the controversy surrounding the jersey exchange reflects the emotional stakes involved in professional soccer.
