News Summary
In a thrilling matchup at Parmer Field, Team East emerged victorious against Team West in the MLS NEXT All-Star Game, winning 4-3. The game featured talented players aged 13 to 16 from various MLS NEXT programs. Notable performances included a standout showing from Prince Forfor, who earned the MVP title with a crucial goal. This event highlighted the rising stars in soccer and celebrated the potential of young athletes, making it a significant part of the ongoing MLS All-Star festivities.
Austin, Texas – The 2025 MLS NEXT All-Star Game showcased a thrilling matchup between the East and West teams, with Team East clinching a comeback victory with a score of 4-3. Among the standout players was August Nystrom, a midfielder from the Portland Timbers Academy, who represented Team West during the event held at Parmer Field.
The match featured 44 talented athletes aged between 13 to 16 years from North America’s MLS NEXT programs. Bursting with potential, these young players demonstrated their skills in front of an eager crowd, all part of a week-long soccer celebration leading up to the 2025 MLS All-Star Game, which will showcase stars from MLS and Liga MX.
The game kicked off with both teams unable to break the deadlock, with the score tied at 1-1 by halftime. Team West drew first blood in the 32nd minute, when Lorenzo Cornelius from St. Louis CITY SC set up his teammate Tim Dennis from Minnesota United FC for a tap-in goal. Just before the halftime whistle, Team East equalized through Cristiano Oliveira of the New England Revolution, who skillfully converted a free kick in the 45th minute.
As the second half unfolded, Team East surged ahead, taking the lead in the 52nd minute with a goal from Gustavo Caraballo of Orlando City. However, Team West would not go quietly; Steel Cook from FC Dallas managed to find the net in the 72nd minute, restoring parity for Team West by scoring from a loose ball in the box.
In a roller coaster of events, Team East regained the advantage shortly after, as Prince Forfor of Columbus Crew scored in the 76th minute. Once again, Team West responded, equalizing with a goal from Tyler Brown of Vancouver Whitecaps FC in the 83rd minute. Tension mounted as the match neared its conclusion.
The decisive moment arrived when a handball in the box led to a penalty kick awarded to Team East, smoothly converted by Jamir Johnson from Philadelphia Union in the 85th minute. This goal sealed the match and led Team East to a well-fought victory.
Prince Forfor’s exceptional performance, which included a pivotal goal and his relentless efforts to challenge the West’s defense, earned him the title of MVP for the game. Fans and players alike celebrated the contributions of all athletes involved in this exhilarating contest.
August Nystrom’s presence on the field added to the prestige of the event. His defensive prowess, including a crucial intervention in the first half, showcased the talent being nurtured at the Portland Timbers Academy. Nystrom is the fourth player from the Timbers Academy to be selected for the MLS NEXT All-Star roster, following in the footsteps of Max Eisenberg, Sawyer Jura, and Ian Shaul.
Hosted by Austin FC, the MLS NEXT All-Star Game formed a key part of the festivities surrounding the MLS All-Star Week, which aim to elevate the visibility and excitement surrounding young soccer talent in the region. Admission to this promising contest was free, allowing families and soccer fans to soak in the skills and camaraderie of emerging young stars without worry about ticket prices.
The MLS NEXT initiative highlights the importance of fostering top-level competition among players in the MLS Academy system. As the young athletes continue to develop their skills, many will strive to make their mark in the world of professional soccer, following the trajectories of those who have come before them.
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Additional Resources
- MLS Soccer: 2025 MLS NEXT All-Star Game Recap
- Fox 7 Austin: Coverage of MLS NEXT All-Star Game
- MLS Soccer: Everything to Know About the 2025 MLS All-Star Game
- Wikipedia: MLS NEXT
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Soccer
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