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Son Heung-min makes MLS debut
LAFC's new signing earns a draw in Chicago and signals a bold push to grow MLS beyond its core markets.
Son Heung-min debuts for LAFC and earns a road point with a late penalty in Chicago while pledging to grow MLS.
Son Heung-min makes instant impact for LAFC and vows to grow MLS
Son Heung-min came off the bench in the 16th minute for LAFC and immediately created the kind of moment owners crave. A late counterattack led to a penalty after a challenge in the box, and Denis Bouanga converted to make the score 2-2 against the Chicago Fire at SeatGeek Stadium in front of a sold out crowd. The result kept LAFC in the hunt on the road while the former Tottenham star soaked in a debut that drew cheering sections of Korean fans and Spurs jerseys from the stands.
LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo and defender Ryan Hollingshead praised Son for slipping into the team quickly after only a few training sessions. Son acknowledged a hectic week that began with his move from Europe but stressed his aim to help MLS grow. The match illustrated MLS’s push to attract big names and expand markets, a trend that mirrors earlier milestones like Lionel Messi’s arrival and the league’s ongoing stadium and infrastructure upgrades. The setting also underscored the league’s evolving calendar and travel demands as teams chase longer, cross country trips and more high profile fixtures.
Key Takeaways
"This was an exciting time for a whole week joining LAFC, it was huge"
Son on his arrival and quick integration
"There was only one thing I wanted to do and today, being on the pitch, I think it was fantastic. With the result it’s a little bit disappointing, because I think we should’ve gotten three points here"
Postmatch reflection on performance and result
"I really enjoyed it. You never had this coming from away games. I used to play in the Premier League. When I played at away grounds they were always booing me and always booing the players. But it was nice to see people were celebrating, people were enjoying the football"
Son on away support
"I want to do well for MLS because I came here to make this league big. I want to be part of that. I’m very, very happy to be here. So let’s make this league big"
Son on MLS mission
Son’s debut is less a single game and more a signaling event for MLS. His arrival highlights a deliberate strategy: bring in marquee players to raise the league’s profile, expand the fan base beyond traditional centers, and encourage deeper investment in venues and training facilities. Yet the moment also exposes MLS to risks. Big signings can raise expectations and cost pressures if results do not translate into sustained competitive advantage or revenue growth for a broad set of clubs. The league is betting that a broader ecosystem of upgrades, including new or renovated stadiums, can spread the wealth of attention and commercial upside beyond one club or market.
Highlights
- This was an exciting time for a whole week joining LAFC, it was huge
- I came here to make this league big
- We should have gotten three points here
- Let’s make this league big
Investment and growth risk for MLS
The debut underscores MLS aggressive spending on marquee players, which could provoke fan or investor backlash if expectations aren’t met. The league relies on new stadiums and cross country travel, creating financial and logistical pressures across markets. Sustained success will require broader performance across teams, not just one high profile signing.
MLS now faces the test of turning star power into lasting momentum.
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