MLS All-Star Game: A Benchmark for the US and Canadian League?

Strategic Insights -

The MLS All-Star game is an annual tradition that pits the league's best players against a selection from Mexico's Liga MX. While some see it as a benchmark to measure the US and Canadian league against Mexico's, others view it as a frivolous affair. The game's format, with MLS stars facing off against Liga MX's top players, provided a competitive match, with the MLS All-Stars ultimately winning 3-1. The game was marked by impressive displays from LAFC's Denis Bouanga and the Philadelphia Union's Tai Baribo, as well as a notable goal from 16-year-old Gilberto Mora of Liga MX.

Key Takeaways:

  • The MLS All-Stars defeated their Liga MX counterparts 3-1, with goals from Sam Surridge, Tai Baribo, and Brian White.
  • The game was marked by impressive displays from LAFC's Denis Bouanga and the Philadelphia Union's Tai Baribo.
  • 16-year-old Gilberto Mora of Liga MX scored the league's only goal of the night.
  • The game saw a significant number of substitutions, with no heavy tackles or injuries reported.
  • Liga MX had a major asset in Gilberto Mora, but he still managed to shine despite being a 16-year-old newcomer to the league.
  • Vancouver's American standout Brian White bundled in MLS's final goal, giving a boost to the league's work improving the depth of the USMNT ahead of a huge World Cup year.
  • The game was played at a sold-out crowd in Austin, Texas.
  • Lionel Messi skipped the three-day festivities, potentially facing suspension for his team's next match.
  • MLS commissioner Don Garber hinted that the league may need to rethink the foundations of its All-Star game, citing low viewership numbers (120,000 average viewers per game) and fixture congestion.

Statistics:

  • The MLS All-Stars won the game 3-1.
  • The game saw 120,000 average viewers per game, a near-50% increase from last year.
  • The league draws 120,000 average viewers for its game broadcasts on average.
  • Most US leagues are doing the exact opposite of MLS, abandoning or modifying their All-Star games (e.g. NBA, NFL).

Sources:

  • Eric Gay/AP (Photograph credit)
  • Q2 Stadium in Austin (context)