Son Heung-min scored twice within three minutes in the first half, leading the MLS All-Stars to a 4-3 victory over the LIGA MX All-Stars on Wednesday night at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. The LAFC forward’s goals, both assisted by Carles Gil, were crucial in overturning an early deficit and earned Son the most valuable player honor for the match.

The game began with LIGA MX taking an early lead in the 10th minute when Luis Gabriel Rey converted a running header from a free kick, sending the ball past MLS goalkeeper Matt Freese. Son soon responded, controlling a pass from Gil on the left flank before placing a well-aimed shot beyond LIGA MX’s keeper Carlos Acevedo to equalize at 1-1 in the 20th minute. Moments later, Gil prevented the ball from leaving the field and quickly set up Son in front of the net, allowing the forward to put MLS ahead 2-1.

MLS extended their advantage in the 42nd minute when Philip Zinckernagel of the Chicago Fire scored on a rebound to make it 3-1 before halftime. The LIGA MX side narrowed the gap to 3-2 early in the second half through Salomon Rondon, but MLS midfielder Evander da Silva Ferreira from FC Cincinnati added a goal in the 58th minute to restore a two-goal margin.

In the final moments of the match during extra time, LIGA MX forward Jose Pardela scored, bringing the score to 4-3, but the MLS All-Stars maintained their lead to secure the win. The match drew a crowd of 35,217 fans.

Son credited his teammates for their support in making his two-goal performance possible. “I had great players, amazing players around me, and that made my job easier,” he said. His teammates, including Nashville SC midfielder Hany Mukhtar, praised Son’s skill and consistent performance, highlighting his status as a world-class talent.

The closely contested match showcased the ongoing rivalry between the MLS and LIGA MX leagues, with both sides demonstrating offensive prowess and competitive spirit throughout the evening.