Son Heung-min makes MLS debut for LAFC

Footballer Son Heung-min reacts after a match against Chicago Fire FC at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, Illinois on Aug. 9, 2025. Reuters-Yonhap

SEOUL, August 10 (AJP) - Striker Son Heung-min made his Major League Soccer (MLS) debut for Los Angeles FC (LAFC) on Saturday, just days after finalizing his transfer from Tottenham Hotspur.

Son's earlier-than-expected debut was anticipated after he was included among the substitutes for the MLS club's away match against Chicago Fire FC.

At SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, Illinois, Son came onto the pitch in the 61st minute to replace Venezuelan forward David Martínez, with LAFC trailing 2-1. About 20 minutes later, his burst of energy helped the team earn a crucial penalty that led to an equalizer, and the match ended in a 2-2 draw.

MLS praised Son, calling him the "Tottenham and South Korean legend" who "came off the bench for LAFC and made an immediate impact."

After ending his 10-year stint with Spurs in the English Premier League, Son signed a record MLS deal worth around US$26 million last Wednesday to join the American club. His contract runs through 2027, with two one-year renewal options.

Park Sae-jin swatchsjp@ajunews.com