MLS All-Stars Defeat Chelsea FC

Wednesday night a stadium-record of 19,236 fans piled into PPL Park to watch world soccer superstars take the pitch. The MLS All-Stars won the match for the first time since 2008, beating Chelsea FC 3-2 in extra time on Wednesday night at PPL Park.

Chris Wondolowski, Chris Pontius, and Eddie Johnson scored for MLS, with Johnson’s match-winner coming in extra time. Although the Chelsea squad was not exactly at full strength, the win is important in illustrating the development and progression of soccer in the United States. Chelsea midfielder John Terry commented on the growth saying, “I watch the MLS and it’s improving year after year. You can see that in the players, as well”.

While pessimists will credit the win to a Chelsea team in preseason preparation, the MLS All-Stars led by renowned players Landon Donavon, David Beckham, and Thierry Henry can use it as a measuring stick for the progression of Major League Soccer. At the very least this victory is another step toward legitimacy for MLS. 

Image Credit: Major League Soccer