News Summary
In a thrilling match at Q2 Stadium, MLS All-Stars claimed a 3-1 victory over Liga MX. The game featured standout performances, including goals from Sam Surridge and Tai Baribo. This match marks the third consecutive win for MLS in All-Star contests against Liga MX, showcasing the growth of U.S. soccer and the increasing competitive nature of these annual fixtures. The event attracted over 20,000 fans, underscoring the intense rivalry and engagement in North American soccer.
Austin Hosts 2025 MLS All-Star Game, MLS Secures 3-1 Victory Over Liga MX
Austin, Texas — In a highly anticipated match at Q2 Stadium, the Major League Soccer (MLS) All-Stars defeated Liga MX of Mexico by a score of 3-1 on July 23, 2025. The game drew over 20,000 fans and marked the third time in four years that MLS has beaten Liga MX in an All-Star contest, demonstrating the growing strength and competitive edge of U.S. soccer clubs and players in this annual exhibition match.
Match Highlights and Key Goals
The match opened in favor of MLS with Sam Surridge scoring the first goal in the 28th minute. The Nashville SC forward headed in a cross from Denis Bouanga of LAFC, giving the MLS team an early lead. The goal was a highlight of the first half, showcasing MLS’s offensive potential.
In the second half, Tai Baribo of the Philadelphia Union extended MLS’s lead with a goal in the 51st minute. Baribo finished a precise pass from Diego Rossi of Columbus Crew, elevating the score to 2-0. The goal earned Baribo the game’s Most Valuable Player award, recognized for his impactful performance.
For Liga MX, Gilberto Mora of Club Tijuana responded in the 64th minute, successfully netting his first-ever MLS All-Star goal. His strike helped narrow the scoring margin, marking a significant milestone as he became the youngest player to score in an MLS All-Star Game.
The MLS squad sealed the victory with a third goal in the 80th minute. Brian White of Vancouver FC scored, assisted by Philip Zinckernagel of Chicago Fire and Cristian Espinoza of San Jose Earthquakes. The goal solidified MLS’s dominance in this year’s fixture.
Game Dynamics and Substitutions
The match was characterized by strategic substitutions, with Liga MX changing its entire lineup at halftime and MLS making seven substitutions during the first half. This approach aimed to balance player effort across different upcoming competitions and showcased the depth of talent in both leagues.
Standout Performances and Defensive Efforts
Yohei Takaoka of Vancouver FC was instrumental for MLS, making several crucial saves, including a notable stop against Diber Cambindo of Necaxa in the 75th minute. His performance kept MLS’s lead intact during intense moments of the game and contributed significantly to the team’s overall success.
Recent Context and Broader Significance
This victory marked MLS’s third win over Liga MX in recent All-Star matchups, following a loss in 2024 when Liga MX came from behind to win 4-1 in Columbus, Ohio. The 2025 game underscored the evolving rivalry and competitive spirit between the two leagues, which have historically been prominent at both club and national levels.
Key Players and League Impact
United States star Lionel Messi, who previously missed the 2024 All-Star Game due to injury, did not participate in the 2025 match. Currently, Messi and teammate Jordi Alba of Inter Miami face potential league suspensions for missing this high-profile game, which could affect their participation in upcoming matches, including a critical fixture against Cincinnati.
Within MLS, Sam Surridge is tied with Lionel Messi for the league lead in goals this season, both tallying 18 goals. Such performances highlight the individual talents contributing to MLS’s ongoing rise in competitive stature.
Conclusion
The 2025 MLS All-Star Game in Austin was a showcase of talent, strategy, and league competitiveness. With a decisive 3-1 victory over Liga MX, MLS affirms its growing national and international presence while continuing to build on the rivalry that has become a central feature of North American soccer.
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