News Summary
In a thrilling match at Q2 Stadium, MLS All-Stars triumphed over Liga MX with a score of 3-1. The game drew over 20,000 fans and showcased incredible talent, with key goals from Sam Surridge, Tai Baribo, and Brian White. Notably, Gilberto Mora of Liga MX became the youngest scorer in All-Star history. The All-Stars’ victory highlighted the growing rivalry between the leagues and continued dominance after winning three of the last four All-Star encounters.
Austin Hosts MLS All-Star Game with MLS Securing 3-1 Victory Over Liga MX
Austin, Texas — On July 23, the 2025 MLS All-Star Game took place at Q2 Stadium, where the Major League Soccer (MLS) All-Stars emerged victorious over Liga MX of Mexico with a final score of 3-1. The match drew an attendance of over 20,000 fans, marking a significant event in North American soccer and highlighting the ongoing rivalry between the two leagues.
Match Highlights and Goals
The MLS squad scored three goals, with key contributors including Sam Surridge, Tai Baribo, and Brian White. Surridge’s goal was the first of the game, coming in the 28th minute via a header assisted by Denis Bouanga. The second goal was scored by Tai Baribo, who finished a pass from Diego Rossi in the 51st minute, doubling the MLS lead.
Liga MX responded with a goal from Gilberto Mora of Club Tijuana in the 64th minute. Mora’s strike made him the youngest player to score in an MLS All-Star Game’s history. However, White sealed the game for MLS with a goal in the 80th minute, assisted by Philip Zinckernagel and Cristian Espinoza, securing the 3-1 victory for the MLS All-Stars.
Lineup Changes and Tactical Moves
Throughout the match, both teams implemented multiple substitutions to adapt to the game’s flow. Liga MX made a complete lineup change at halftime, substituting all starting players, while MLS had already made seven substitutions in the first half to manage scheduling with upcoming fixtures.
In goal, Vancouver FC’s Yohei Takaoka was instrumental for MLS, making critical saves including a notable stop against Diber Cambindo of Necaxa in the 75th minute. His efforts helped preserve MLS’s lead during a period of intensified Liga MX pressure.
Individual Performances and Awards
The most notable individual accolade went to Tai Baribo, who was named Most Valuable Player of the Match for his contributions and goal. Surridge and Lionel Messi tied for the season lead in MLS goals, each with 18 goals. However, Messi did not participate in the All-Star Game, having missed the previous year’s event due to injury.
League Implications and Player Eligibility
Post-match, attention turned to potential disciplinary actions. Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba of Inter Miami face possible league suspensions for missing the game, which could impact their next match against Cincinnati. The absence of Messi, a key figure for MLS, was noted as a significant storyline of the event.
Historical Context and Significance
This victory marked MLS’s third win in four attempts over Liga MX in All-Star competition, following a loss in 2024. Last year’s game, held in Columbus, Ohio, saw Liga MX triumph with a 4-1 score. The match at Q2 Stadium further elevated the importance of these annual events, showcasing the strength and competitive spirit of North American soccer.
This edition of the MLS All-Star Game emphasized the enduring rivalry between the United States and Mexico, both at the club and national team levels. It was praised for its significance and the high level of competition, drawing attention to the growth of soccer in the region and the importance of cross-border sporting events.
Conclusion
The 2025 MLS All-Star Game provided an exciting and competitive encounter that was well-received by fans and analysts alike. With key players on display and a spirited contest, it reinforced the rising trajectory of MLS and the ongoing soccer rivalry with Liga MX as two of the top leagues in the continent.
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