MLS ALL STAR GAME
Arsenal crash the MLS party at the All Star Game
The Premier League team didn’t hold back, thrashing the MLS stars 5-0 in the All Star Game, with Mikel Arteta’s new boy Havertz on the scoresheet.
It was a party for the United States, still with the frenzy caused by the arrival of a certain Lionel Messi. Major League Soccer celebrates its new superstar, however, the league’s All Star team found a serious opponent visiting from the Premier League.
MLS All Stars outgunned
Critics of the North American league always point out how poorly they defend, and Bukayo Saka was in charge of exhibiting those shortcomings on two occasions. The first was a rebound that ended at the feet of Gabriel Jesús and as they tried to get up from that blow, once again Saka took advantage of the weakness in the back line hitting a pass to Leandro Trossard all alone, who beat the St. Louis goalkeeper.
The dominance of Mikel Arteta’s men forced Wayne Rooney to make several changes. Six were made by the Manchester United legend, who did not want to be embarrassed, even in a glorified friendly, to an old rival.
Havertz silences critics
The start of the second half couldn’t have been worse for the MLS stars. After a clearance, the ball hit Tim Parker on the hand and the referee did not hesitate to point to the spot. Jorginho made no mistake.
As multiple substitutions were brought on, the pace of the occasion slowed but goals were still to come. Gabriel Martinelli added a fourth and then the moment the Gunners fans were hoping for.
Kai Havertz, who came under heavy criticism after failing to pick up a point in the Skills Challenge, added the fifth with a volley after a cross from American Folarin Balogun.
A good preparation for the London side, one looking to build on the impressive performance last season. For the MLS, all eyes turn to the Leagues Cup, and the debut of Messi.