The Major League Soccer have announced the 29-man squad for the upcoming All-Star game, including Mbekezeli Mbokazi who had more votes than Lionel Messi.
The All-Star game is set to be held on 29 July, when the MSL All Stars will take on All Stars of Liga MX of Mexico.
Mbokazi has been selected alongside the likes of Messi, Thomas Müller, Heung-min Son and Rodrigo de Paul after a brilliant breakout campaign with Chicago Fire so far.
“Twenty-nine players will represent Major League Soccer against the LIGA MX All-Stars during the 2026 MLS All-Star Game presented by Chime, which is held on July 29 at Charlotte FC‘s Bank of America Stadium,” the MLS announced.
In addition to the squad, every player was introduced individually, with Mbokazi even receiving more votes than eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi, who plays for Inter Miami.
“Mbokazi’s breakout 2026 World Cup came as no surprise to Chicago Fire FC supporters, who have enjoyed the South African center back’s elite defensive performances throughout his debut MLS campaign,” the league stated.
“The 20-year-old led all players in All-Star fan voting, surpassing even Argentine great Lionel Messi.