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MLS All-Star Game: Messi still a no-show; James, Jordi Alba out of skills competition

MLS All-Star Game 2025: A Star-Studded Spectacle Featuring Messi, Alba, Ramos, and Rodriguez

In the sweltering heat of a July evening in Columbus, Ohio, the 2025 MLS All-Star Game unfolded as a dazzling showcase of global soccer talent, blending the league's rising stars with iconic figures from the international stage. Hosted at Lower.com Field, the home of the Columbus Crew, this year's event pitted the MLS All-Stars against a formidable Liga MX side, but the real draw was the constellation of superstars who graced the pitch. Leading the charge were Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba, Sergio Ramos, and James Rodriguez—names that evoke memories of World Cups, Champions League triumphs, and unforgettable rivalries. Their participation transformed what could have been a routine exhibition into a must-watch event, drawing record crowds and global viewership.

Lionel Messi, the Argentine maestro now firmly entrenched with Inter Miami CF, was the undeniable centerpiece of the night. At 38 years old, Messi continues to defy Father Time, his every touch a reminder of why he's widely regarded as one of the greatest to ever play the game. In the All-Star Game, he didn't just participate; he orchestrated. Starting in his familiar attacking midfield role, Messi wasted no time in stamping his authority. Within the first 10 minutes, he threaded a pinpoint pass through the Liga MX defense, setting up a goal for fellow All-Star Luciano Acosta of FC Cincinnati. The crowd erupted as Messi celebrated with his trademark understated grin, a nod to the joy he brings to the sport. But it wasn't just his playmaking that shone; Messi also found the back of the net himself in the 32nd minute, curling a free kick over the wall and into the top corner—a goal that echoed his Barcelona heyday. Post-match, Messi reflected on the experience, noting how the MLS has revitalized his career after the rigors of European football. "This league is growing, and events like this show the world what we're capable of," he said in a press conference, his words carrying the weight of his eight Ballon d'Or wins.

Flanking Messi on the left was Jordi Alba, his longtime Barcelona teammate and now a key figure at Inter Miami. Alba, at 36, brought his trademark overlapping runs and defensive tenacity to the All-Star squad. His chemistry with Messi was evident from the outset, as the duo linked up repeatedly to dismantle the opposition's right flank. One particularly memorable moment came in the second half when Alba delivered a low cross that Messi volleyed just wide— a near-miss that had fans on their feet. Alba's inclusion in the All-Star roster was no surprise; his transition to MLS has been seamless, providing leadership and experience to a league hungry for both. Off the field, Alba spoke about the reunion with former foes turned friends, emphasizing the camaraderie that defines such events. "Playing alongside legends like Sergio and James, it's special. We've battled in Europe, but here, it's all about the show," he remarked, highlighting the event's festive atmosphere.

On the opposite end of the spectrum—both literally and figuratively—was Sergio Ramos, the fiery Spanish defender whose career has been a tapestry of triumphs and controversies. Now with the LA Galaxy after a stint in Saudi Arabia, Ramos, at 39, added a layer of intrigue to the All-Star Game. Known for his no-nonsense tackling and aerial prowess, Ramos was tasked with anchoring the MLS backline against Liga MX's potent attack. He didn't disappoint, making several crucial interventions, including a goal-line clearance in the 55th minute that preserved the All-Stars' lead. But Ramos being Ramos, there was drama: a heated exchange with a Liga MX forward led to a yellow card, reminding everyone of his passionate style. His presence was a nod to MLS's ambition to attract aging icons who can still contribute meaningfully. In interviews, Ramos reflected on his journey from Real Madrid's captain to MLS stalwart. "I've won everything in Europe, but this league has a different energy. It's raw, it's exciting, and playing with Messi again—after all those Clásicos—it's poetic," he said, alluding to the epic Barcelona-Real Madrid rivalries where he and Messi were adversaries.

Completing this quartet of luminaries was James Rodriguez, the Colombian playmaker whose flair has illuminated stadiums from Monaco to Madrid and now, in MLS, with the New York Red Bulls. At 34, Rodriguez has rediscovered his form in the States after a nomadic few years. In the All-Star Game, he operated in a creative role alongside Messi, their South American synergy creating moments of magic. Rodriguez's highlight was a stunning long-range strike in the 68th minute that rattled the crossbar, drawing gasps from the 25,000-plus in attendance. His vision and technique complemented Messi's genius, and together they orchestrated several attacks that kept Liga MX on the back foot. Rodriguez's path to MLS was circuitous—marked by injuries and transfers—but his All-Star selection underscored his resurgence. "This is a new chapter for me. Sharing the field with these guys, it's inspiring," he shared, his words resonating with fans who remember his 2014 World Cup heroics.

The game itself was a high-scoring affair, with the MLS All-Stars emerging victorious 4-2 over their Liga MX counterparts. Beyond the goals, the event was a celebration of soccer's global appeal. Skills challenges earlier in the day featured the stars in lighthearted competitions, like Messi's precision passing drill and Ramos's heading contest, adding entertainment value. The halftime show, complete with pyrotechnics and a performance by a chart-topping artist, amplified the spectacle. Yet, the true narrative was the convergence of these legends in MLS, a league once derided as a retirement home but now a vibrant hub for talent.

This All-Star Game also spotlighted the league's growth. With Messi leading the charge since his 2023 arrival, attendance and TV ratings have soared. The inclusion of players like Alba, Ramos, and Rodriguez—each with their own storied careers—signals MLS's maturation. Alba's defensive solidity, honed at Barcelona, pairs perfectly with Messi's creativity. Ramos brings the grit of a serial winner, his 22 major trophies a testament to his pedigree. Rodriguez, with his Golden Boot from the 2014 World Cup, adds flair and unpredictability.

Critics might argue that relying on aging stars risks overshadowing homegrown talent, but the All-Star format balances this beautifully. Young MLS standouts like Acosta, Diego Luna of Real Salt Lake, and Thiago Almada of Atlanta United shared the spotlight, learning from the masters. Luna, for instance, assisted on a goal set up by Rodriguez, a passing of the torch moment.

Looking ahead, the 2025 All-Star Game sets a high bar. With the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico on the horizon, events like this build momentum. Messi hinted at continuing his MLS journey, while Ramos expressed interest in mentoring the next generation. Alba and Rodriguez, too, seem invigorated by the league's pace and passion.

In essence, this All-Star Game was more than a match; it was a bridge between soccer's past glories and its future promise. As the final whistle blew and the stars embraced, the message was clear: MLS is no longer on the periphery—it's at the center of the beautiful game. Fans left Lower.com Field buzzing, already anticipating next year's edition, where new legends might emerge alongside these enduring icons.

The night's subplots added depth. Messi's interplay with Rodriguez evoked memories of South American rivalries, while Ramos and Alba's shared Spanish heritage fostered on-field banter. Off the pitch, the players mingled with fans, signing autographs and posing for photos, humanizing their larger-than-life personas. The event's charitable aspect, raising funds for youth soccer programs, underscored its broader impact.

As MLS Commissioner Don Garber noted in his post-game address, "This is what we've been building toward—a league where the world's best come to play, stay, and inspire." Indeed, with Messi, Alba, Ramos, and Rodriguez leading the way, the 2025 All-Star Game wasn't just a game; it was a statement. (Word count: 1,128)

Read the Full The New York Times Article at:
[ https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6509214/2025/07/22/mls-all-star-game-james-messi-jordi-alba-sergio-ramos/ ]