MLS to take on Liga MX once again in 2022 All-Star game
By Chris Smith
Major League Soccer have announced the details for their 2022 MLS All-Star game.
The annual event sees the league's very best players come together to face a top-class opponent from around the world.
Down the years, the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea, Juventus, and Real Madrid have taken part, bringing a cast of star players stateside for the exhibition event.
For the first time, last year's All-Star game saw MLS take on the very best from Liga MX - the top-flight level in Mexico. And once again, the two Concacaf rivals will go head-to-head as the All-Star game heads to Minnesota United's Allianz Field on Wednesday, August 10.
A return of the MLS vs Liga MX format signals the continuing and growing partnership between the two leagues, who already compete exclusively against each other in the Campeones Cup and Leagues Cup, as well as regularly meeting in Concacaf Champions League play.
“Last year’s match between the MLS All-Stars and the Liga MX All-Stars was the most
competitive MLS All-Star Game ever, and we’re pleased to renew the rivalry between the two
leagues this summer,” MLS commissioner Don Garber said in a release.
“Our partnership with Liga MX has brought out the best in both leagues on and off the field, and I have no doubt the intensity will be even higher for the rematch in Minnesota. Beyond the game, All-Star Week will celebrate our sport with a series of cultural and community initiatives for the passionate soccer fans of the region. From the first day through the MLS All-Star Game presented by Target, it will be an unforgettable week in Minnesota.”
Liga MX executive president Mikel Arriola added: “For Liga MX it was a great experience to play in the MLS All-Star Game for the first time last year. The players gave their all to represent our league and everyone enjoyed an unprecedented game, where the fans of each of our 18 teams came together to support the Liga MX team.
"For us, the opportunity to relive this experience in 2022 is exciting and fills us with pride, but we are committed to preparing ourselves in the best way, and with our best players, to seek a win, and of course, revenge against MLS.”
The two teams will also go head-to-head a day earlier in the famed 'Skills Challenge' which will see players score points for their team based on various freestyle challenges and drills.
As part of the All-Star week's events, R&B artist Khalid will also headline a concert at The Commons in downtown Minneapolis.