2021 MLS All-Star Game (2020 Cancelled)

[Shwafta]

LMAO at John Strong claiming “there’s nobody else you’d want taking this penalty than Nani” when he had the game clinching PK chance.

The guy is 7 of 12 from the spot since joining MLS (prior to the ASG). I would have rather had nearly anyone else than Nani in that spot

Seriously. Sands on penalties man, he's been amazing lol.

...For what it's worth, I think switching the all star format to this one is a welcome change. We don't need to see a heavily-rotated European "giant", the game isn't even fun. This game was fun! Both teams had something to play for - their league's pride. And it showed. It wasn't super high stakes, but the players out there from both sides made it so. I was surprised with how seriously the Liga MX players were taking it, but they really were taking it very seriously. I love it! .

I thought the skills challenge thing was cringeworthy at first, but after seeing more footage from it and seeing how much fun all the players had with it, I think it or variations/iterations should be done in the future as well. I think that this event, if it keeps or improves this format, will eventually become a big media point as the years go by and the authenticity of it sinks in and grabs hold.

 

[mgarbowski]

I woke this morning and skimmed through the game. When Mexico scored in the first half I thought "Why the hell is Gallese our starting keeper," even though it wasn't really his fault. Then the game went to spot kicks and Turner was in net and I realized I was wrong to doubt Coach Bradley on this one.

 

[SoupInNYC]

Seriously. Sands on penalties man, he's been amazing lol.

...For what it's worth, I think switching the all star format to this one is a welcome change. We don't need to see a heavily-rotated European "giant", the game isn't even fun. This game was fun! Both teams had something to play for - their league's pride. And it showed. It wasn't super high stakes, but the players out there from both sides made it so. I was surprised with how seriously the Liga MX players were taking it, but they really were taking it very seriously. I love it! .

I thought the skills challenge thing was cringeworthy at first, but after seeing more footage from it and seeing how much fun all the players had with it, I think it or variations/iterations should be done in the future as well. I think that this event, if it keeps or improves this format, will eventually become a big media point as the years go by and the authenticity of it sinks in and grabs hold.

The fact that players were basically limited to playing only 20-30 minutes I think makes players less likely to dog it, knowing they don't have to play significant minutes.

 

[Shwafta]

The fact that players were basically limited to playing only 20-30 minutes I think makes players less likely to dog it, knowing they don't have to play significant minutes.

Exactly. I was thinking this during the game, that it's less likely to have injuries etc. when there's such heavy rotation. And that's a very good thing!