MLS All-Stars Win Skills Challenge at Q2 Stadium

The MLS All-Stars showcased their talent during the Skills Challenge at Q2 Stadium.

News Summary

The 2025 MLS All-Star Skills Challenge concluded with the MLS All-Stars defeating LIGA MX 4-2 at Austin FC’s Q2 Stadium. Evander set a new record in the Shooting Challenge, and the overall excitement set the stage for the upcoming All-Star Game. Teams showcased talent, including Clint Dempsey and Yohei Takaoka’s game-clinching performance. Austin FC continues to thrive as fans anticipate high-profile players and local heroes being honored during the event.

Austin

The 2025 MLS All-Star Skills Challenge concluded on Tuesday night at Austin FC’s Q2 Stadium, with the MLS All-Stars emerging victorious over their LIGA MX counterparts in a closely contested competition, securing a 4-2 win. This victory marks the first Skills Challenge title for the MLS All-Stars since 2022 and sets the stage for the highly anticipated 2025 MLS All-Star Game, scheduled for 8 PM CT on Wednesday.

In an impressive performance, Evander from FC Cincinnati shattered records during the Shooting Challenge, amassing a remarkable 72 points and surpassing the previous record of 65 points set by Héctor Herrera in 2022. The highlight of the Touch Challenge came from Club América’s Alex Zendejas and Brian Rodríguez, who collectively achieved a record-breaking score of 120 points, outpacing the former record of 71 points.

Despite an early lead from LIGA MX, courtesy of Gilberto Mora from Club Tijuana and his impressive volleys, Brad Stuver from Austin FC made critical saves to keep the MLS team in the game. Following this, Denis Bouanga from LAFC equalized in the competition with a timely goal, earning both teams a point before moving into the final rounds of the challenge.

In a notable duel between legends, Clint Dempsey, a celebrated figure in MLS and USMNT history, triumphed over Mexican footballer Oribe Peralta. Additionally, Evander maintained his momentum by defeating Rodrigo Dourado from Atlético San Luis, further solidifying his status as a key player in the event. The Skills Challenge culminated with Yohei Takaoka, the goalkeeper from Vancouver Whitecaps FC, hitting the crossbar with a successful final shot to clinch the overall victory for the MLS All-Stars.

Upcoming All-Star Game

The upcoming 2025 MLS All-Star Game is poised to be an exciting event, featuring both MLS and LIGA MX showcasing 12-player rosters each, alongside various special guests. Nico Estévez, head coach of Austin FC, leads the MLS All-Stars, while Andre Jardine, fresh off being named the LIGA MX Coach of the Year, returns to lead the LIGA MX All-Stars.

Context of the Rivalry

This event marks the fourth encounter between MLS and LIGA MX All-Stars, with MLS currently leading the series 2-1. The most recent All-Star match saw the LIGA MX All-Stars claim victory. Adding excitement to the competition, the upcoming Leagues Cup 2025 begins on July 29, featuring 36 teams from both leagues, continuing the tradition of sporting rivalry. MLS teams have triumphed in the first two editions of the Leagues Cup, with notable victories by Inter Miami in 2023 and Columbus Crew in 2024.

Austin FC’s Hosting Success

Austin FC has quickly made a name for itself as a robust addition to the league since its inception in 2021, boasting an impressive track record of 81 consecutive sellouts. As the league’s longest active streak, this highlights the enduring support and passion for the sport in Austin.

Fans can look forward to seeing internationally acclaimed players at the game, including Lionel Messi, Sergio Ramos, Jordi Alba, and Nicolás Rodríguez. The event will also spotlight Gilberto Mora, a promising 16-year-old talent, as he showcases his potential among football’s rising stars. Furthermore, during the All-Star week at Q2 Stadium, four local heroes will be honored for their contributions to the community, adding a meaningful touch to the celebration of soccer.