Young soccer players showcase their skills during the MLS NEXT All-Star Game.
The 2025 MLS NEXT All-Star Game showcased young talent as Team East narrowly defeated Team West 4-3 in a thrilling match held at Parmer Field. The game featured a competitive first half with both teams tied at 1-1, followed by a dynamic second half where Team East took the lead before Team West equalized. Ultimately, a penalty kick secured the win for Team East. August Nystrom of the Portland Timbers Academy represented Team West and had a standout performance, highlighting the skills of promising young players in the MLS Academy system.
Austin, Texas – August Nystrom of the Portland Timbers Academy represented Team West in the highly anticipated 2025 MLS NEXT All-Star Game held at Parmer Field. The match, which showcased 44 promising young players from across North America, concluded with Team East edging out Team West with a thrilling final score of 4-3, after a remarkable comeback in the second half.
The game was tightly contested, beginning with both teams tied at 1-1 at halftime. Team West initially took the lead in the 32nd minute with a well-executed play that saw Lorenzo Cornelius of St. Louis CITY SC provide an assist to Tim Dennis from Minnesota United FC for a close-range goal. This early advantage was equalized just before the break when Cristiano Oliveira from New England Revolution executed a precise free kick, finding the back of the net in the 45th minute.
In the second half, Team East surged ahead with a goal from Gustavo Caraballo of Orlando City in the 52nd minute, changing the momentum of the match. Team West fought back, equalizing with a goal from Steel Cook of FC Dallas in the 72nd minute after capitalizing on a loose ball in the box. However, Team East quickly regained the upper hand as Prince Forfor of Columbus Crew scored again in the 76th minute, putting Team East back in the lead.
Team West was undeterred, managing to level the score once more with an effort from Tyler Brown of Vancouver Whitecaps FC in the 83rd minute. The excitement ramped up as the game neared its conclusion when a handball in the box led to a penalty kick awarded to Team East. Jamir Johnson from Philadelphia Union successfully converted the penalty in the 85th minute, sealing the victory for Team East.
August Nystrom, who played as a center back for Team West, had a noteworthy performance throughout the match, contributing with critical defensive stops, including a crucial intervention during the first half. His selection for the All-Star roster marks a significant achievement, as he is the fourth player from the Portland Timbers Academy to earn this honor, following Max Eisenberg, Sawyer Jura, and Ian Shaul.
The standout player of the match, Prince Forfor, was named the MLS NEXT All-Star Game MVP for his impressive performance that included a key goal and consistent challenges to the West’s defensive efforts.
This All-Star Game was a significant component of a week-long soccer celebration in Austin, culminating with the premier 2025 MLS All-Star Game featuring All-Stars from both Major League Soccer and Liga MX. The MLS NEXT All-Star Game specifically highlighted the exceptional talents of young players aged 13 to 16 who have shown promise in their respective MLS Academy programs.
Admission to this notable event was free, enabling fans to witness the future stars of soccer without any charge. The MLS NEXT aims to present the highest level of performance among players in the academy system, making events like this valuable for both players and supporters alike.
The hosting of the MLS NEXT All-Star Game in Austin, Texas, reflects the city’s commitment to promoting soccer culture and nurturing young talent within the sport.
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