News Summary
At Q2 Stadium in Austin, the MLS All-Stars claimed a decisive victory over LIGA MX All-Stars in the 2025 Skills Challenge, winning with a score of 4-2. The event featured impressive performances, including record-breaking feats by players like Evander and Alex Zendejas. With this win, the MLS side demonstrated their skills and competitiveness as they prepare for the upcoming All-Star Game and further challenges against Mexican teams.
Austin, Texas — MLS All-Stars Win 2025 Skills Challenge Over LIGA MX
The city of Austin hosted the 2025 MLS All-Star Skills Challenge on Tuesday night at Q2 Stadium, culminating in an MLS All-Stars victory over their Mexican rivals, the LIGA MX All-Stars. The final score was 4-2, marking a significant win for MLS in this annual event.
Record-Breaking Performances Lead to MLS Victory
The event showcased outstanding individual achievements and record-breaking efforts from both teams. Evander of FC Cincinnati set a new high in the Shooting Challenge with 72 points, surpassing the previous record of 65 points set in 2022 by Héctor Herrera. This performance was a highlight for MLS players as they demonstrated their shooting accuracy and composure.
In the Touch Challenge, Alex Zendejas of Club América and Brian RodrÃguez of LA Galaxy set a new record with a combined score of 120 points. This broke the previous best of 71 points, underscoring their quick footwork and ball control skills. Their teamwork and finesse set a new standard for the event.
Competitive Highlights and Key Moments
The LIGA MX team initially took an early lead thanks to Gilberto Mora from Club Tijuana, who executed impressive volleys, energizing the crowd. However, the MLS side responded robustly. Brad Stuver of Austin FC made critical saves that kept the score tight and prevented the Mexican team from extending its lead.
In the latter stages of the competition, Denis Bouanga from LAFC scored a late goal, tying the score at 2-2 and earning both teams a single point for their efforts. The tension increased as the event drew to a close.
Featured Matchups and Notable Performances
One of the most anticipated duels was between Clint Dempsey, a renowned figure in MLS and the US Men’s National Team, and Oribe Peralta of Mexico. Dempsey emerged victorious in their showdown, adding to his legacy as a top player.
Evander continued his dominant performance by defeating Rodrigo Dourado from Atlético San Luis. Meanwhile, Yohei Takaoka of Vancouver Whitecaps FC closed the event with a successful shot that hit the crossbar, sealing a win for MLS in the Skills Challenge.
Significance and Future Events
This victory marked the MLS All-Stars’ first Skills Challenge win since 2022. The upcoming 2025 MLS All-Star Game is scheduled for 8 PM CT on Wednesday at Q2 Stadium. Both leagues will feature 12-player rosters plus special guests, adding star power to the event.
Coach Nico Estévez of Austin FC leads the MLS team, while Andre Jardine of Club América will steer the LIGA MX squad for the second year in a row after earning the 2025 LIGA MX Coach of the Year award.
Background and Context
This event is the fourth encounter between MLS and LIGA MX All-Star teams, with MLS holding a lead of 2 wins to 1 against Mexico. The most recent match before 2025 was won by the LIGA MX team. The series continues to grow in importance as both leagues prepare for the upcoming Leagues Cup 2025, beginning on July 29, which will feature 36 teams from both leagues.
MLS teams have won the first two editions of Leagues Cup—Inter Miami in 2023 and Columbus Crew in 2024—highlighting the league’s rising competitiveness.
Notable Participants and Community Engagement
Expectations are high for notable players such as Lionel Messi, Sergio Ramos, Jordi Alba, and Nicolás RodrÃguez. A special focus will also be on Gilberto Mora, the 16-year-old from Club Tijuana, who could demonstrate his burgeoning talent as one of the sport’s emerging stars.
During the All-Star week, Q2 Stadium will also honor four local heroes for their notable contributions to the community, emphasizing the event’s commitment to local engagement and celebration.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- MLS Soccer: Everything to Know About 2025 MLS All-Star Game
- KXAN: How Major League Soccer is Helping Keep Austin Clean
- CBS Austin: MLS All-Star Game to Honor Local Heroes
- Wikipedia: Major League Soccer
- Google News: MLS All-Star Game 2025
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