The 2026 MLS All‑Star Game unfolded under the North Carolina sky in Charlotte, drawing a capacity crowd for a showcase that pitted the league’s best against a star‑studded LIGA MX XI.
A Night of Upsets and Highlights
Son Heung‑min stole the early thunder, striking twice within three minutes in the first half, each finish set up by Carles Gil’s precise passing.
The MLS side built a 3‑1 lead before halftime, with Philip Zinckernagel extending the advantage in the 42nd minute, but Liga MX answered through Salomon Rondon and a late strike from Jose Pardela that pulled them within one.
Lionel Messi, the marquee name in the MLS roster, was absent, an excused withdrawal after his World Cup heroics, leaving fans to wonder about the impact of his presence.
Despite the late surge, the MLS All‑Stars held on for a 4‑3 victory, with Evander da Silva Ferreira sealing the win in the 58th minute before Pardela’s extra‑time goal made the final score respectable.