What Is 2017 MLS All Star Game

Overview

The 2017 MLS All-Star Game was a high-profile exhibition match that brought together the best players from Major League Soccer to face one of the world’s most decorated clubs, Real Madrid. Held on August 3, 2017, at Soldier Field in Chicago, the game attracted global attention due to the prestige of both teams and the growing international profile of MLS.

This edition marked a shift from previous formats, as MLS returned to playing a single international club instead of an MLS team. The match was part of a broader strategy to elevate the league’s global visibility and strengthen ties with top European franchises. Despite not being a competitive fixture, the game carried significant symbolic weight for American soccer.

• August 3, 2017 was the official date of the match, making it the 12th edition of the modern MLS All-Star format since its inception in 1996.
• Soldier Field, home of the Chicago Fire, hosted the game with a capacity crowd of over 61,000 fans in attendance.
• Real Madrid, the reigning UEFA Champions League champions, participated as the visiting team, marking their first appearance in the MLS All-Star Game.
• The final result was a 1–1 draw after regulation time, with Real Madrid scoring first through Karim Benzema and Jozy Altidore equalizing for MLS.
• The MLS All-Stars won 3–2 in a penalty shootout, with goalkeepers Stefan Frei and Kyle Reynish making crucial saves.

How It Works

The MLS All-Star Game follows a unique format that blends fan engagement, league representation, and international competition. Unlike traditional all-star games in other sports, MLS has experimented with different formats, including league vs. league and selection methods.

• All-Star Selection: The roster is chosen through a combination of fan voting, coach input, and commissioner picks, ensuring broad representation across the league.
• International Opponent: Since 2003, MLS has frequently invited a prominent foreign club, such as Real Madrid or Manchester United, to raise the event’s profile.
• Exhibition Format: The game does not count toward regular-season standings and emphasizes entertainment and global exposure over competitive results.
• Host City Rotation: The venue changes annually, with cities bidding to host, often boosting local tourism and stadium investment.
• Player Participation: Selected players are typically top performers from the current season, including MVP candidates and rising stars.
• Penalty Shootout: In 2017, a shootout was used to decide the winner after a draw, a rare but exciting conclusion to the exhibition.

Comparison at a Glance

The 2017 game stands out when compared to other recent All-Star editions due to the caliber of the opponent and the dramatic finish. Below is a comparison with selected past matches:

The 2017 match had the highest attendance since 2010 and was notable for being the only one to go to penalties. Real Madrid’s participation elevated the profile significantly compared to previous English and German opponents, drawing widespread media coverage and digital engagement.

Why It Matters

The 2017 MLS All-Star Game was more than just an exhibition—it symbolized the league’s growing ambition and global integration. By hosting Real Madrid, MLS demonstrated its ability to attract elite talent and compete on a world stage, even if only in a friendly context.

• Global Exposure: The match was broadcast in over 150 countries, significantly expanding MLS’s international audience and brand recognition.
• Player Morale: Scoring against a team like Real Madrid boosted confidence among MLS players and validated their competitive level.
• Commercial Success: Ticket sales, merchandise, and sponsorships generated millions in revenue, showcasing the economic potential of marquee matchups.
• League Growth: The event highlighted the progress MLS has made since its early years, now capable of hosting elite European clubs with full stadiums.
• Youth Inspiration: Young American players saw top domestic and international talent share the pitch, reinforcing soccer’s rising popularity in the U.S.
• Future Collaborations: The success encouraged future exhibition matches, such as friendlies with FC Barcelona and Manchester City in subsequent summers.

Ultimately, the 2017 game served as a milestone in MLS history, blending sport, spectacle, and strategic growth. It reinforced the league’s commitment to excellence and global engagement, setting a benchmark for future All-Star events.