The MLS All-Star Skills Challenge made its triumphant return, bringing with it a captivating dose of drama. This mid-season celebration of MLS, akin to other major US sports, featured a standout event known as “Goalie Wars,” much to the delight of fans.
Introduced to TV screens in 2001 during the San Jose Earthquakes’ All-Star Game at Spartan Stadium, Goalie Wars became an instant hit. Ever since its inception, fans have been eagerly clamoring for its return, and this year, Major League Soccer answered their calls by incorporating it into the yearly Skills Challenge ahead of the MLS All Stars’ exciting showdown against Arsenal at Audi Field in Washington D.C.
🧤Goalie wars are back!!!#MLSAllStar | 📹 @MLS
— The Sportsman (@TheSportsman) July 19, 2023
A recent viral clip of the latest Goalie Wars contest showcased its captivating allure, with fans from across the globe enchanted by the spectacle that epitomizes American-style entertainment.
What exactly are Goalie Wars?
While you may have witnessed playful crossbar challenges and shooting drills, experiencing the artistry of Goalie Wars for the first time is an entirely different ball game. This concept, originating in the States, resurfaced for this year’s All-Star game after a brief hiatus.
In essence, Goalie Wars is a heart-pounding one-on-one soccer game between two agile goalkeepers. Within a short time frame, these shot-stoppers fiercely compete against each other on a small pitch. Each keeper must guard their goal while simultaneously attempting to score past their counterpart. The intense showdown allows the use of hands or feet for shots, and once a player takes their turn, it’s the other’s chance immediately.
The contest’s swift pace and the sense of urgency to react instantly to the opponent’s shot create an electric atmosphere that is uniquely American in its spectacle. While this may not be everyone’s preferred style of football, it undeniably delivers an exhilarating experience that would be a massive hit among fans who have never witnessed it before.
ISAAC WALKER IS THE GOALIE WARS CHAMPION đź‘‘ pic.twitter.com/kVjxIOM0le
— MLS NEXT Pro (@MLSNEXTPRO) July 19, 2023
In this year’s intensely dramatic battle, Isaac Walker of Crown Legacy FC faced off against Damian Las of Austin FC II. The two goalkeepers engaged in a thrilling back-and-forth duel, with Walker initially leading 2-1 until the final moments, when Las dramatically equalized at the buzzer, forcing the game into overtime. Eventually, the jubilant Crown Legacy keeper emerged victorious in the extended period, capping off a memorable performance.
Arsenal goalkeeper reminisces on the thrills of playing Goalie Wars
As many European clubs, including Arsenal, descended upon the United States for their preseason, MLS teams set aside some time for the classic match.
Aaron Ramsdale LOVES Goalie Wars at the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge. 🤩 [@JillianSakovits] #afc pic.twitter.com/yRUnzF4n9C
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) July 19, 2023
Aaron Ramsdale, the shot-stopper for the Gunners, was been spotted sitting on the pitch and admiring the action with a mixture of awe and mild amusement.. As he observed the players battling it out in the Goalie Wars, Ramsdale fondly recalled his own experiences of playing the game as a youngster, evoking a flood of cherished memories from his youth. “Goalie wars, so many memories growing up,” he shared.
“I used to play it individuals, two v. twos. Twice a week, we use to play from the age of 10 to 16. It’s the first time I’ve seen it for a long time, and they put on a good show as well. But yeah, next time I come I want a proper go at that.”
In an era where UEFA appears eager to experiment with rule changes and regulations of the game, perhaps embracing these radical alterations and making them entertaining is the way to go as they continue to evolve.