WASHINGTON – Arsenal's class was on full display in the 2023 MLS All-Star Skills Challenge presented by AT&T 5G, knocking off the MLS All-Stars via a 4-1 edge in all five competitions Tuesday evening.
The event served as the appetizer to Wednesday's marquee showdown, when Arsenal and MLS meet for the 2023 MLS All-Star Game presented by Target (8:30 pm ET | MLS Season Pass).
In the meantime, it's advantage to the English Premier League powerhouse as the league spotlight descends on D.C. United's Audi Field.
Shooting Challenge presented by AT&T 5G
Winner: Arsenal
Led by shooting clinics from defenders Jurien Timber and Jakub Kiwior, the Gunners cleaned house when trying to hit targets with 60 seconds on the clock. Each team had three players in the mix.
Touch Challenge presented by Dawn
Winner: Arsenal
Atlanta United midfielder Thiago Almada's World Cup-winning skill made it close, but a top-shelf performance from summer signing Kai Havertz made the difference as Arsenal pulled away for the victory.
Cross & Volley Challenge presented by AT&T 5G
Winner: MLS All-Stars
LAFC forward Dénis Bouanga showed why he's one of the top scorers in MLS, dominating with an array of left-footed and right-footed volleys to put his squad back in the mix. D.C. United goalkeeper Tyler Miller also delighted the home fans.
Passing Challenge presented by Bounty
Winner: Arsenal
Despite a record-setting performance from Almada, Kiwior and Arsenal midfielder Jorginho won their 1-on-1 battles to tilt the edge towards the 2022-23 EPL runner-up.
Crossbar Challenge presented by GilletteLabs
Winner: Arsenal
US international defender Auston Trusty, a former Philadelphia Union homegrown player and Colorado Rapids standout, was the deciding factor when a victory was up for grabs. Standing in Zone 2, located 40 yards out from the goal, Trusty pinged the crossbar to delight Arsenal players and supporters.
Playing for charity
As part of the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge presented by AT&T 5G, both MLS and Arsenal competed on behalf of organizations making positive change in local communities – resulting in $25,000 donations to two groups.
MLS played for DC SCORES, which creates neighborhood teams that give kids the confidence and skills to succeed on the playing field, in the classroom and in life through soccer, poetry and service-learning programming. Arsenal played for Special Olympics DC, which provides sports, health and inclusion programs that benefit children and adults with intellectual disabilities in the district.
In addition, as part of AT&T’s nationwide commitment to help bridge the digital divide, a $25,000 donation was made to Serve Your City. During Soccer Celebration fans had the opportunity to contribute to the goal of raising up to $25,000. AT&T 5G pledged $50 for every AT&T blue target hit at the Mini Shooting Challenge (up to $25,000).
