​Three Charlotte FC players earned spots on the roster for the Major League Soccer All-Star Game. Pep Biel, Ashley Westwood, and Tim Ream will team up with Charlotte FC coach Dean Smith for the big match, scheduled for Wednesday, July 29. The MLS All-Stars are set to face the All-Stars from Mexico’s top league at Bank of America Stadium.
Biel spoke about Charlotte hosting the game, calling it a proud achievement that puts the city on the map. And for those curious, Lionel Messi was also named to the All-Star team.
To promote the event, Charlotte FC and Major League Soccer hosted a “goalie skills” competition with members of the media on Wednesday. Action 9’s Jason Stoogenke participated, showcasing quick reflexes by blocking several shots in front of the goal. Stoogenke advanced to the semifinals, after which the younger participants took over.
Former U.S. World Cup goalkeeper Tony Meola attended the event and offered one piece of advice for Stoogenke: “If you could gain about six inches in height, I think that would help. If you do that, you’re fine. Everything else looked good.”
The MLS All-Star Game is set to kick off at 8 p.m. on July 29. This high-profile event promises an exciting clash as the MLS All-Stars take on their Mexican league counterparts. For Charlotte FC fans and MLS followers alike, the participation of Biel, Westwood, and Ream adds extra excitement and regional pride as the city prepares to host the spectacle.