MLS opens season Feb. 21 with Lionel Messi in spotlight

Field Level Media|published: Wed 20th December, 14:44 2023

Nov 10, 2023; Lauderdale, FL, USA; Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi (10) reacts after missing a shot against New York City during the first half at DRV PNK Stadium. credits: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

The 2024 MLS regular season opens on Feb. 21 with Lionel Messi and Inter Miami CF hosting Real Salt Lake.

The standalone game featuring the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner marks the earliest start in the league's 29-year history.

The league released the full 34-game regular season schedule for all 29 teams on Wednesday.

The Feb. 24-25 opening weekend features 14 matches, including another Messi showcase as Miami visits the LA Galaxy on Feb. 25.

The defending MLS Cup champion Columbus Crew open up at home against Atlanta United FC on Feb. 24.

Other highlights of the schedule include 2024 MLS Rivalry Week from May 11-18, pitting Columbus against FC Cincinnati (May 11), Portland Timbers vs. Seattle Sounders (May 12), Orlando City SC vs. Inter Miami (May 15) and Toronto FC vs. CF Montreal (May 18).

LA Galaxy and LAFC will renew their "El Trafico" rivalry at the Rose Bowl on July 4.

The action on July 13 features a 2023 MLS Cup rematch with Columbus visiting LAFC.

The MLS All-Star Game is scheduled for July 24 in Columbus, Ohio, followed by Leagues Cup competition between MLS and LIGA MX teams from July 26 to Aug. 25.

The regular season concludes on Oct. 19 with 14 games.

The 2024 MLS Cup final will take place on Dec. 7.

—Field Level Media