News Summary
The MLS All-Stars celebrated a 4-2 victory over LIGA MX in the 2025 Skills Challenge at Q2 Stadium. Standout performances included record-breaking scores from Evander and a collaborative effort from Zendejas and Rodríguez. The event showcased exceptional talent and set the stage for the upcoming All-Star Game, featuring both MLS and LIGA MX players. Enthusiasm continues to build with notable local contributions and emerging stars making headlines ahead of the thrilling match.
Austin, Texas — The 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) All-Star Skills Challenge concluded Tuesday night at Q2 Stadium, with the MLS All-Stars securing a 4-2 victory over their LIGA MX rivals. This event served as a precursor to the upcoming All-Star Game, highlighting individual and team performances in a series of competitive challenges.
Key Results from the Skills Challenge
The MLS All-Stars achieved a notable victory, marking their first Skills Challenge title since 2022. Among the standout performances, Evander from FC Cincinnati set a new record in the Shooting Challenge with an impressive total of 72 points. This surpassed the previous high of 65 points, held since 2022 by Héctor Herrera. Additionally, in the Touch Challenge, Alex Zendejas of Club América and Brian Rodríguez of LAFC combined for 120 points, breaking the previous record of 71 points.
Notable Individual Performances
Multiple players showcased their skills during the event. Gilberto Mora from Club Tijuana opened the scoring for LIGA MX with precise volleys, though his efforts were countered by crucial saves from Austin FC goalkeeper Brad Stuver. Later in the competition, Denis Bouanga of LAFC scored a late goal to tie the match, earning both teams a point. Vancouver Whitecaps FC’s Yohei Takaoka helped secure the MLS win with a successful shot hitting the crossbar in the final moments.
Legendary MLS and USMNT player Clint Dempsey edged out Mexican footballer Oribe Peralta in their head-to-head duel. Evander continued his strong showing by defeating Rodrigo Dourado from Atlético San Luis, further emphasizing his dominance in the challenge. These performances contributed to the MLS team’s overall victory, which marked a significant achievement for the league in the Skills Challenge history.
Standout Moments and Highlights
The Skills Challenge included dramatic moments such as Bale Takaoka’s game-winning shot, and the performance from 16-year-old Gilberto Mora, who continues to demonstrate promising potential as a rising star in football. The event also paid homage to four local heroes recognized for their community contributions during the All-Star week at Q2 Stadium.
Upcoming All-Star Game and Events
The 2025 MLS All-Star Game is scheduled to take place at 8 PM Central Time on Wednesday, again at Q2 Stadium. Both MLS and LIGA MX will feature 12-player rosters plus special guest participants. The teams will be led by head coaches Nico Estévez of Austin FC and Andre Jardine of Club América, who will serve for the second consecutive year after winning the 2025 LIGA MX Coach of the Year award.
Series History and Next Encounters
This year’s match marks the fourth overall encounter between MLS and LIGA MX All-Stars, with MLS holding a slight advantage with 2 wins to LIGA MX’s 1. The most recent game was won by the LIGA MX team. The match comes amidst heightened anticipation ahead of the Leagues Cup 2025, beginning on July 29, which involves 36 clubs from both leagues. MLS teams have been dominant in the competition’s initial editions, winning in 2023 and 2024, with Inter Miami and Columbus Crew claiming the titles.
Notable Players and Local Highlights
As the All-Star week approaches, fans anticipate performances from high-profile players including Lionel Messi, Sergio Ramos, Jordi Alba, and Nicolás Rodríguez. Among emerging talents, 16-year-old Gilberto Mora draws attention with potential to rise as a top figure in international football.
Since joining in 2021, Austin FC has experienced a remarkable streak of 81 consecutive sellouts at Q2 Stadium, establishing it as the longest active streak in the league. The event also honors four local community heroes, recognizing their contributions during the festivities.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 All-Star event continues to build excitement for the upcoming match and the broader competitive landscape involving MLS and LIGA MX teams participating in future tournaments like the Leagues Cup. As both leagues prepare for ongoing rivalries and new challengers, the Skills Challenge at Austin provided a glimpse of top talent and an exciting showcase for fans across North America.
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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
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
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