The 2025 MLS vs Liga MX All-Star Game is scheduled for July 23 at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, marking the fourth edition of this unique North American soccer rivalry. This high-profile event pits 30 MLS All-Stars against 29 Liga MX All-Stars in a much-anticipated matchup that follows the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge on July 22 at 9 p.m. ET. The series currently stands with MLS leading 2-1, having claimed victories in 2021 through penalty kicks and again in 2022 with a 2-1 score, while Liga MX won the most recent encounter in 2024 by 4-1.

Serving as the season opener for Leagues Cup 2025, this event gains additional importance as the leading teams will secure spots in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, raising competitive stakes. Austin FC’s head coach Nico Estévez leads the MLS squad, which is composed of a blend of seasoned stars and promising young talent, selected through an intricate process involving fans, players, media votes, Estévez’s own choices, and selections by Commissioner Don Garber.

Key Players and Star Power in the Mixed Rosters

The MLS All-Star roster features mega-star Lionel Messi, though his participation remains uncertain because of a possible suspension. Supporting Messi are skilled players such as Jordi Alba and Denis Bouanga, known for their creativity and attacking flair, while Anders Dreyer stands out as the league leader with 15 assists. Sam Surridge from Nashville SC leads the MLS in goals scored with 16, and local favorites like Brad Stuver from Austin FC are also spotlighted on the squad.

On the Liga MX side, managed by Club América’s André Jardine, the team showcases 29 elite players, including internationally recognized names like Sergio Ramos and James Rodríguez. Alexis Vega, the attacking midfielder who has scored 13 goals this season, anchors the lineup alongside top goalkeeper Luis Malagón. The squad features strong representation from Club América with six players, as well as five from Cruz Azul, including defender Willer Ditta. A rising talent, Gilberto Mora, rounds out the mix as the squad aims to repeat their decisive victory from last year’s all-star contest.

MLS All-Star Roster Composition and Notable Selections

The MLS squad includes goalkeepers Dayne St. Clair from Minnesota United FC, voted in by fans, alongside Brad Stuver of Austin FC and Yohei Takaoka of Vancouver Whitecaps FC, both coach’s selections. The defensive lineup features players such as Michael Boxall and Tristan Blackmon, who were chosen through fan voting, complemented by coach picks like Max Arfsten and Jakob Glesnes. Midfield and attacking positions include a range of notable players such as Jordi Alba (voted in), Denis Bouanga, and the versatile Philip Zinckernagel (coach’s pick).

Inter Miami CF contributes several key players apart from Messi, including strategists like Diego Rossi and Marco Pašalić, as well as Brian White, making an impact through media and fan recognition. Additional players such as Chucky Lozano and Anders Dreyer were selected by the league commissioner and coaching staff, ensuring a diverse and balanced lineup across all positions.

Detailed Look at the Liga MX All-Star Selections

The Liga MX squad’s goalkeeping is led by Luis Malagón of Club América, a Balón de Oro nominee, with Kevin Mier from Cruz Azul also recognized as Goalkeeper of the Year. Defensively, the lineup includes six-time award winner Willer Ditta and fullback Jesús Gallardo, while the midfield showcases award nominees such as Carlos Rotondi and Érik Lira. Key attacking players include forward Paulinho, Forward of the Year, and Alexis Vega, the league’s top attacking midfielder.

Seasoned veterans like Roberto Alvarado and Marcel Ruíz, as well as rising stars such as Hugo Camberos, the Newcomer of the Year, add depth to the squad. Sergio Ramos, recently acquired by CF Monterrey, and James Rodríguez from Club León provide international experience and leadership. The squad has a well-rounded mix selected by coach André Jardine and special picks from FMF President, like Uroš Đurđević of Atlas.

Significance and Future Outlook of the All-Star Showdown

This 2025 MLS vs Liga MX All-Star Game underscores the intensifying competition and camaraderie between the leagues, serving as a major sports event in North America. With Concacaf Champions Cup qualifications at stake, both teams are set to contest fiercely, emphasizing the growing stature and quality of soccer on the continent. The involvement of global icons such as Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos raises the profile of the clash, drawing substantial attention from fans and media alike.

Looking ahead, this game is expected to further strengthen the dialogue between MLS and Liga MX, potentially influencing future collaborations and tournaments. The event also provides players, from rising stars to established veterans, a valuable platform to showcase their talents against top-tier competition, contributing to the ongoing development of soccer in both leagues.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Is Lionel Messi religious?

A. He grew up as a Roman Catholic, adhering to his family’s beliefs. He has two tattoos that reflect his Catholic faith. One of Jesus Christ with a crown of thorns is on his upper right shoulder, and a rosary is on his forearm.