MLS shows how big-time all-star events should be done

MATT LACZKO | THE CHARLOTTE POST

Nashville SC midfielder Hany Mukhtar, left, celebrates with LAFC forward Son Heung-Min after Son's goal in the MLS All-Stars' 4-3 win against Liga MX All-Stars July 29, 2026, at Bank of America Stadium. Son, who scored two goals, was named most valuable player.

The MLS All-Star game did not disappoint. 

As a reporter still in early days of a career, this was my first chance to cover an all-star game in any sport. MLS does it right. 

We’ve gotten to the point where most major professional leagues’ all-star events are watered down from what they once were. The NBA’s All-Star Weekend is most entertaining for the three-point and dunk contests now because in the game itself there is no defense and the winner at times will score over 200 points. 

The NFL, I shouldn’t even get started on that. Its Pro Bowl consists of what is now called the Pro Bowl Games. It culminates in a 7-on-7 flag football game.

Are you kidding me? Flag football. 

I’m sure these types of events are replacing what we all traditionally knew due to the possibility of injuries, hard hits or fouls. Just go back to 2007 when NFC defensive back Sean Taylor leveled AFC punter Brian Moorman on a fake punt. While Moorman wasn’t hurt, the hit raised eyebrows. 

All that in mind, I watched how MLS conducted its all-star activities. There was a skills challenge — Charlotte FC defender Tim Ream won the passing contest at Truist Field – along with other events around the city leading up to the culmination at Bank of America Stadium. 

Major League Soccer’s best squared off with the Liga MX All-Stars in a game that was highly entertaining. Liga MX got on the board first to the surprise of many in the press box, including myself. Then LAFC forward Son Heung-Min — who was named MVP — scored two quick goals to put MLS ahead. 

At halftime the score was 3-1 MLS, and a capacity crowd was treated to a halftime show by Ciara, who performed some of her top hits. Fans had flashlights on their phones turned on, and even in the press box there were a few media colleagues getting into the concert. 

The second half was back and forth, and Liga MX did provide a little scare in the 90th plus-one scoring to get just a goal back. But it was too late in the end. 

While a final 4-3 scoreline is probably high for the average of 3.11 total goals scored in an MLS game, there was still defense, a few fouls had to be called, and the goalkeepers did make a handful of solid saves. There was no lack of effort, which gave the fans a great experience. 

Kudos to Dave Tepper and everyone involved in getting the game to Charlotte. It was a great experience and during a World Cup year when soccer interest was at an all-time high, even on a Wednesday night at 8:15 p.m. the Bank was electric. 

Cameron Williams is a reporter at The Post.

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