Football BaBe
MLS All-Stars Triumph Over Liga MX with Bouanga’s Brilliance
In a captivating showdown that highlighted the growing prowess of Major League Soccer, the MLS All-Stars secured a commanding 3-1 victory against their Liga MX counterparts, showcasing exceptional talent and tactical edge at the vibrant Q2 Stadium. This win not only avenged previous defeats but also underscored the league’s competitive spirit, drawing a full house of enthusiastic fans eager for top-tier action.
- Tai Baribo earns MVP honors in MLS victory
- Bouanga drives the charge in dominant 3-1 success
- Ramos struggles in debut for Liga MX squad
Early Dominance and Key Moments in MLS All-Stars vs. Liga MX Clash
AUSTIN, Texas – Major League Soccer reclaimed its glory in this annual spectacle, with the All-Stars delivering a solid 3-1 triumph against elite talents from Liga MX during the midweek matchup at Q2 Stadium. This result marked a strong comeback for MLS, following significant setbacks in the prior two years against European giants Arsenal and the same Mexican league opponents.
Liga MX All-Stars took control of the ball from the outset, nearly breaking the deadlock when Monterrey forward Sergio Canales maneuvered into dangerous territory and unleashed a fierce strike. However, Austin FC‘s own Brad Stuver, representing the MLS side, made a spectacular dive to deny the effort and keep the score level.
Denis Bouanga Ignites the MLS All-Stars Offense
LAFC standout Denis Bouanga emerged as the driving force for MLS, surging forward on a swift breakaway to generate the team’s initial opportunity. Racing down the left wing, he fired a powerful attempt at Club América keeper Luis Malagón.
Although the Mexican shot-stopper parried the initial blast, Bouanga swiftly pursued the loose ball along the sideline. Spotting Nashville SC forward Sam Surridge advancing toward the net, Bouanga delivered a precise, arcing delivery that Surridge headed home to give MLS the lead. Bouanga nearly doubled the advantage shortly after, but Malagón thwarted him again, and Surridge couldn’t capitalize on the follow-up.
Second-Half Thrills and Decisive Goals for MLS All-Stars Victory
As the match progressed into the latter stages with fresh legs entering the fray, the intensity ramped up. Philadelphia Union‘s Tai Baribo capitalized on a sublime pass from Columbus Crew‘s Diego Rossi to extend the MLS lead, though Liga MX struck back within 13 minutes.
Tijuana’s rising star and Mexican national team talent Gilberto Mora netted a solo effort following a lapse in the MLS defense. Yet, MLS sealed the deal when Vancouver Whitecaps‘ Brian White, a key U.S. player, finished off a sequence assisted by Chicago Fire’s Philip Zinckernagel and San Jose’s Cristian Espinoza, reminiscent of a well-orchestrated play in ice hockey.
Record Attendance and Fan Enthusiasm Despite Absences
Even with worries over crowd turnout stemming from Lionel Messi’s absence from Inter Miami, the event drew a capacity crowd in one of MLS’s most dedicated cities. Officials reported a sell-out of 20,738 seats, reflecting the league’s surging popularity-up from previous years and aligning with a 15% rise in average attendance across MLS matches in 2025.
Standout Performances: Bouanga and Baribo Shine for MLS All-Stars
MLS boasted several impressive displays, highlighted by game MVP Tai Baribo, but it was Bouanga’s unyielding energy that dictated the pace right from kickoff. Liga MX struggled to match his speed and physicality, and he was unfortunate not to register a goal himself.
Without his crucial setup to Surridge, the contest might have unfolded quite differently. Bouanga suggested this could be his swan song in an MLS All-Star jersey, amid ongoing rumors linking him to Liga MX giants Club América. Regardless, his impact was unforgettable.
Challenges on the Liga MX Side: Ramos’s Tough Outing
Pinpointing underperformers in an All-Star setup is tricky, given the limited preparation time for team synergy. That said, Sergio Ramos stands out. The veteran arrived in Austin on the day of the game, and his rustiness was evident as he failed to neutralize threats from Bouanga or Surridge during transitions.
Still, the 39-year-old deserves praise for participating, especially when compared to other high-profile players who opted out from both leagues.
Looking Ahead for MLS and Liga MX Seasons
Action in both MLS and Liga MX picks up again starting Friday, promising more exciting developments in their respective campaigns.
