Austin, Texas – The moment football fans across North America have been waiting for is finally here! The 2025 MLS All-Star Game, pitting the best of Major League Soccer against their formidable rivals from Liga MX, has kicked off at Q2 Stadium in Austin. The starting XI for the MLS All-Stars, carefully selected by Austin FC Head Coach Nico Estévez, has been confirmed as the whistle blows for what promises to be an electrifying encounter.
The MLS All-Stars Lineup
The MLS All-Stars football vs Liga MX All-Stars lineups have generated immense buzz, with fans eager to see their favorite players take the pitch together. For the MLS All-Stars, the starting XI is:
- Goalkeeper: Brad Stuver (Austin FC) – Playing in front of his home crowd.
- Defenders: Kai Wagner (Philadelphia Union), Tristan Blackmon (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), Michael Boxall (Minnesota United FC), Andy Najar (Nashville SC).
- Midfielders: Evander (FC Cincinnati – Captain), Anders Dreyer (San Diego FC), Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps FC).
- Forwards: Denis Bouanga (LAFC), Sam Surridge (Nashville SC), Chucky Lozano (San Diego FC).
Notably, FC Cincinnati’s Evander, a standout performer this season, dons the captain’s armband after winning the 2025 MLS All-Star Captain Fan Vote. The attacking trio features Golden Boot co-leader Sam Surridge, alongside the formidable Denis Bouanga and the exciting Hirving ‘Chucky’ Lozano, who was a Commissioner’s pick.
The Absence of Superstars & The Rivalry’s Edge
While the lineup is packed with talent, the pre-game conversation also revolved around the absence of Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba from the MLS squad. Despite being voted into the team, both Inter Miami stars were not present, raising questions and speculation. MLS rules dictate that players who miss the All-Star Game without a credible injury reason could face a one-match suspension.
This marks the fourth time the MLS All-Stars vs Liga MX All-Stars have met in this format. The MLS side holds a 2-1 historical advantage, though Liga MX claimed a dominant 4-1 victory last year in Columbus. This rivalry adds an extra layer of intensity to tonight’s clash, with both sides eager for bragging rights.
What to Expect
The match is expected to be a high-scoring affair, typical of All-Star games. The MLS All-Stars will be looking to reclaim their dominance after last year’s defeat, while the Liga MX contingent, led by Club América manager Andre Jardine and featuring stars like Sergio Ramos and James Rodriguez, will be determined to make it two wins in a row.
The atmosphere at Q2 Stadium is electric, with fans ready to witness the best of MLS go head-to-head with the elite of Mexican football. Follow the live action to see how this star-studded showdown unfolds and who claims victory in the 2025 MLS All-Star Game. Sources