Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun outshined by defenders Jurrien Timber and Jakub Kiwior in MLS All-Star shooting challenge.
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Arsenal Defenders Jurrien Timber and Jakub Kiwior Shine in MLS All-Star Shooting Challenge.
Arsenal defenders Jurrien Timber and Jakub Kiwior stole the show in the MLS All-Star shooting challenge on Wednesday, scoring a combined 99 points to help the Gunners to a 121-88 victory.
Timber top-scored for Arsenal with 50 points, just 15 points off the record that was set last year by Hector Herrera. Kiwior was not far behind, scoring 49 points.
In contrast, Inter Milan target Folarin Balogun struggled, scoring just 22 points. His low score meant that Arsenal would have won without him in their three-man team.
Another striker that struggled was ex-Aston Villa, Liverpool and Crystal Palace star Christian Benteke. He mustered 27 points, with Arsenal easing to victory at the home of DC United.
The two teams, who face each other in the MLS All-Star match on Thursday, meet at Audi Field, where Timber and Declan Rice could make their Arsenal debut.
Arsenal will be looking to beat the MLS side for a second time in as many days after winning 6-5 in the All-Star Skills Challenge, with Auston Trusty proving to be an unlikely hero.
Analysis
Timber and Kiwior’s performances in the shooting challenge were a reminder of their quality. Both players are excellent finishers, and they will be hoping to continue their good form in the upcoming season.
Bouanga showed off for #MLSAllStar in the shooting challenge. 💫 pic.twitter.com/PHXcW180nC
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 19, 2023
Balongun’s performance was a disappointment, but it is worth noting that he is still young and developing. He will be hoping to improve his finishing in the coming months.
Arsenal’s victory in the shooting challenge was a good confidence boost ahead of their match against the MLS All-Stars. The Gunners will be hoping to carry their good form into the match on Thursday.
Folarin Balogun on getting the biggest cheer amongst the players & the shooting challenge: “These guys know how much I love being here. Every time I’m here, I’m so happy. It’s harder than it looks, it’s a bit of fun so everyone’s happy!” #afc pic.twitter.com/YK2KB6I7ib
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) July 19, 2023
Prediction
Arsenal are the favorites to win the MLS All-Star match. They have a strong squad, and they are playing well at the moment. The MLS All-Stars are a good team, but they will need to be at their best to beat Arsenal.
I predict that Arsenal will win the match 2-1.
