FA Cup Champion Goalkeeper Joins Epic MLS Next Pro All-Star Battle
Delve deep into the chronicles of American professional soccer and Major League Soccer, and you'll soon encounter one of the sport's most innovative creations—Goalie Wars.
Currently in its third decade and ranking among the globe's premier soccer competitions, MLS hasn't always adhered to international standards. Previously, the league featured penalty shootouts from the center circle and even used timers instead of injury time to conclude matches.
Nevertheless, goalie wars emerged as a signature element of the early MLS All-Star Weekend festivities, featuring two netminders competing directly in the highlight event of the All-Star Skills Competition. After disappearing from the schedule, this competition made its comeback in 2023 and returns once again for 2025.
As MLS and Liga MX clash with their All-Star squads in the MLS All-Star Game in Austin, Texas, on July 23, the top talents from both leagues will also compete in a skills showcase on July 22.
Nevertheless, goalie wars will feature only chosen goalkeepers from MLS Next Pro, the secondary level of the MLS professional structure, mainly designed for emerging talents recruited through academy programs. Despite this, the competition delivers tremendous excitement.
What is Goalie Wars?
It's goalkeeper versus goalkeeper in direct competition. How exciting does that concept sound?
Essentially, the field is condensed and netminders face off against one another, attempting to find the net through various methods while making crucial stops. Players must attempt a shot within three steps and six seconds after retrieving the ball from a save, with goalkeepers able to throw, kick, or drop-kick their scoring efforts.
Each match features an intense back-and-forth format across three 90-second periods, and as a new addition this year, each goalkeeper may utilize one "Bonus Ball" per period, valued at two points rather than one when converted. The four competing goalkeepers will participate in a knockout-style tournament to determine the victor.
Previously, Charlotte FC's Chituru Odunze emerged as champion, and he will be present at Q2 Stadium in Austin to present the award to this year's winner.
Which MLS Next Pro Stars are Competing?
This year's Goalie Wars features four standout performers from throughout MLS Next Pro, including Toronto FC's Adisa De Rosario, offspring of legendary former MLS All-Star Dwayne De Rosario, alongside Orlando City SC's Carlos Mercado and Houston Dynamo's Pedro Cruz, all aged 25 or under.
They will compete alongside 40-year-old Chattanooga FC goalkeeper Eldin Jakupović, who brings one of the most impressive backgrounds to Goalie Wars. An FA Cup winner with Leicester City and Russian Cup champion with Lokomotiv Moscow, he now adds Goalie Wars to his achievements, undoubtedly a distinction he will value as highly as the six UEFA Champions League matches he started for FC Thun.
While Jakupović's veteran experience could provide him with an edge, expect De Rosario to excel on the MLS All-Star Skills Competition platform, considering his father's background in the showcase weekend.
How to Watch MLS Next Pro Goalie Wars
Supporters can watch the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge at no cost on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV on Tuesday, July 22, at 8:00 p.m. ET, with MLS Next Pro Goalie Wars featured throughout the evening's programming.