The MLS All-Stars defeated Liga MX 3-1 on Wednesday night in Austin, Texas, overcoming the challenge despite the notable absence of Lionel Messi. Sam Surridge, the joint top scorer in Major League Soccer, opened the scoring in the first half to set the tone for MLS’s third win in four All-Star Games played under this format since 2021.
Key Goals and Contributions Lead MLS to Success
Tai Baribo of the Philadelphia Union scored the decisive second goal early in the second half, followed by a late goal from Brian White of the Vancouver Whitecaps, providing a comfortable cushion for the MLS team. Baribo, who has 14 goals this season, remains close behind both Surridge and Messi in the league’s Golden Boot race.
In between, young Gilberto Mora of Tijuana became the youngest goal-scorer in the event’s history by scoring in the 64th minute to pull a goal back for Liga MX. Mora, only 16, recently made history as the youngest player to win a senior continental title with Mexico’s CONCACAF Gold Cup victory.
Absent Stars and League Rules on Suspensions
Both Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammate Jordi Alba missed the All-Star Game, fueling uncertainty about their participation. According to MLS regulations, players who skip the All-Star Game face a one-game suspension, which could apply to Messi and Alba for the upcoming home match against FC Cincinnati. However, MLS commissioner Don Garber revealed on Wednesday that no final decision on the suspensions has been made.
Highlights from the Match’s Opening and Winning Goals
The scoring opened in the 28th minute when Surridge capitalized on a chance created by Los Angeles FC’s Denis Bouanga. Bouanga’s speedy run challenged the Liga MX defense, and although his initial shot was saved by Club America’s Luis Malagon, he collected the rebound and delivered a precise cross. Surridge met the ball with a downward header that slipped past Malagon, putting MLS ahead.
Baribo’s goal came shortly after halftime, when he converted a cross from Columbus player Diego Rossi, beating Cruz Azul goalkeeper Kevin Mier from about 15 yards. Later in the second half, the final MLS goal was crafted by a coordinated effort, beginning with New England Revolution’s Carles Gil, who skillfully advanced the ball from midfield. Gil set up San Jose Earthquakes’ Cristian Espinoza on the left, whose pass found Chicago Fire’s Philip Zinckernagel. Zinckernagel’s final delivery allowed White to score with a close-range tap-in in the 80th minute, securing the win.
Match Significance and Future Outlook
The victory reinforces the MLS All-Stars’ dominance in this All-Star Game format, despite the challenge posed by Liga MX and the high-profile absence of Lionel Messi, whose impact remains a topic of discussion. The performances of emerging talents like Gilberto Mora, alongside established MLS scorers such as Surridge and Baribo, highlight the growing competitiveness of the league.
Looking ahead, the potential suspensions for Messi and Alba could affect Inter Miami’s squad depth in the coming MLS fixtures. With the league continuing to attract star talent and showcase exciting matchups, the All-Star Game night in Austin underscored both the strengths and evolving dynamics of the teams involved.
“–Field Level Media”