Austin FC win in an exceptional performance at home!
Danny Jefferson | August 30, 2025
AUSTIN, TEXAS - AUGUST 30: Myrto Uzuni #10 of Austin FC and Osman Bukari #11 of Austin FC embrace after Myrto Uzuni #10 of Austin FC scores a goal assisted by Osman Bukari #11 of Austin FC in the match at Q2 Stadium on August 30, 2025 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Daniel Jefferson/MLS via Getty Images)
Austin FC delivered one of their most complete performances of the season, defeating the San Jose Earthquakes 3–1 at Q2 Stadium. The win was vital for Austin’s postseason push, as it lifted them back into playoff position with just seven matches remaining on the calendar.
The night began with energy and urgency from the home side. Austin pressed San Jose high up the pitch, forcing turnovers and immediately putting the visiting defense under pressure. That approach paid off in the 12th minute when Owen Wolff slipped a perfectly weighted pass into the path of Osman Bukari. The Ghanaian winger made no mistake, calmly finishing into the bottom corner to put the Verde & Black in front.
AUSTIN, TEXAS - AUGUST 30: Mikkel Desler #3 of Austin FC, Diego Rubio #21 of Austin FC, Besard Sabović #14 of Austin FC, Daniel Pereira #8 of Austin FC celebrate after going up 3-1 over San Jose Earthquakes in the match at Q2 Stadium on August 30, 2025 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Daniel Jefferson/MLS via Getty Images)
San Jose attempted to settle into the game after the early setback, controlling stretches of possession and testing Austin’s defensive shape. However, the Earthquakes struggled to convert that possession into clear opportunities. Austin goalkeeper Brad Stuver was rarely called into action in the first half, as the back line of Julio Cascante and Leo Väisänen held firm.
Austin doubled their advantage in the 31st minute through another moment of Bukari brilliance. After beating his marker down the right flank, Bukari delivered a low cross into the area. Myrto Uzuni was well positioned to pounce, guiding the ball into the net to make it 2–0. The combination of Bukari’s speed and Uzuni’s awareness underlined the attacking chemistry Austin had been missing in recent weeks.
AUSTIN, TEXAS - AUGUST 30: DeJuan Jones #22 of the San Jose Earthquakes shows emotion after his team falls down 3-1 in the second half against Austin FC in the match at Q2 Stadium on August 30, 2025 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Daniel Jefferson/MLS via Getty Images)
The Earthquakes found a lifeline early in the second half. In the 49th minute, Daniel Munie capitalized on a loose ball following a corner kick, turning it past Stuver from close range to cut the deficit in half. The goal shifted momentum and gave San Jose belief, as they pushed numbers forward in search of an equalizer.
Despite the pressure, Austin maintained composure and defended with resilience. Diego Rubio and Sebastian Driussi dropped deeper to help control midfield, limiting San Jose’s ability to break lines. Austin’s counterattacking threat remained alive, with Bukari constantly stretching the defense and forcing the Earthquakes to respect the space in behind.
The decisive third goal arrived late in the match. In the 83rd minute, Austin forced another defensive miscue from San Jose when a failed clearance ricocheted off an Earthquakes defender and into the net for an own goal. While not the prettiest of finishes, the goal sealed the result and relieved the pressure on Josh Wolff’s side heading into the final minutes.
Statistically, San Jose had the edge in possession and total shots, but Austin were the more clinical team in the key moments. The hosts managed seven shots on target compared to San Jose’s three, underlining the efficiency that had been missing in earlier matches this summer.
AUSTIN, TEXAS - AUGUST 30: Daniel Munie #5 of the San Jose Earthquakes defending a ball against CJ Fodrey #19 of Austin FC in the match at Q2 Stadium on August 30, 2025 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Daniel Jefferson/MLS via Getty Images)
For Austin, Bukari stood out as the clear man of the match, scoring once and assisting another. His pace, creativity, and work rate were central to everything positive in the attack. Uzuni’s positioning and finishing also provided a reliable outlet, while Stuver’s steady presence gave confidence to the defense.
With the 3–1 victory, Austin extended their unbeaten run to three matches and climbed back into the playoff picture. The result also sets the stage for a tense run-in, with another meeting against San Jose looming on the final day of the regular season. For now, though, Austin can take confidence from a performance that combined defensive discipline, attacking sharpness, and the belief that their season is still very much alive.
Red Bulls End Union’s Long Unbeaten Streak
Danny Jefferson | August 16, 2025
The New York Red Bulls finally put an end to years of frustration against the Philadelphia Union, pulling off a 1–0 win at Red Bull Arena on Saturday night. The result was not only three critical points for New York but also the first time they had beaten the Union in league play since 2019.
The first half was tight and physical, with both sides struggling to create many clear chances. Philadelphia looked to build through possession, while New York pressed high and disrupted their passing lanes. Andre Blake kept the Union steady early with an important save, but his night was cut short by injury, forcing teenager Andrew Rick into action in goal.
The young goalkeeper was immediately thrust into a pressure-filled environment. New York pushed forward, but the Union defense kept the hosts largely contained before the break. The match felt tense, waiting for a breakthrough moment on either side.
Philadelphia had their best chance of the game midway through the second half. Bruno Damiani was brought down in the box and awarded a penalty in the 68th minute. He stepped up to take it himself, but Carlos Coronel guessed correctly and made a sharp stop to deny his former club.
That save changed the tone of the match, and just minutes later, New York struck the decisive blow. In the 74th minute, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting slipped a clever ball into space for Dylan Nealis. The defender finished first-time into the far corner for his first MLS goal, sparking celebrations in front of the home crowd.
Philadelphia tried to answer immediately, sending more players forward in search of an equalizer. Kai Wagner came closest, bending a shot just wide of the post as the Union piled on late pressure. But the Red Bulls defense stayed organized, and Coronel commanded his area well to see out the clean sheet.
On the stat sheet, Philadelphia finished with more possession and a slight edge in total shots, but the Red Bulls made the most of their opportunities. Their ability to capitalize on the penalty save and convert their best chance ultimately proved the difference.
The win was a statement for New York, who not only ended a 16-match unbeaten streak by the Union in this rivalry but also strengthened their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race. The confidence gained from such a result could prove valuable down the stretch.
For Philadelphia, it was a night of missed chances and unwelcome setbacks. Blake’s injury status will be a major concern, and the failure to convert from the spot was a costly turning point. Still, the Union remain in postseason contention, and their response in upcoming matches will define how costly this loss becomes.
In the end, the story of the night came down to two pivotal moments: Coronel’s penalty save and Nealis’s breakthrough goal. Together they ended a long streak, reminded everyone of the fine margins in MLS, and gave New York a victory their fans had been waiting years to celebrate.
Dynamo reign supreme to claim the Copa Tejas trophy with draw against Austin FC
Danny Jefferson | August 9, 2025
Austin FC looked poised for a statement win in the Copa Tejas rivalry on Saturday night, but two late goals from Jack McGlynn saw Houston Dynamo battle back for a dramatic 2–2 draw at Q2 Stadium. What began as one of Austin’s most controlled performances of the season ended in frustration, as the visitors snatched a point in the closing minutes.
The match began with intensity befitting the rivalry, with Austin asserting control in midfield and probing Houston’s back line. The breakthrough came in the 31st minute when Ilie Sánchez rose to meet a corner kick. His initial effort was saved, but he followed up with a header on the rebound to give Austin the lead. The goal marked Sánchez’s first in Major League Soccer, a fitting moment for one of the team’s steady veterans.
Austin carried the momentum and doubled their advantage before halftime. In the 41st minute, Osman Bukari showcased his pace and creativity on the flank, beating his marker and delivering a pinpoint cross. Guilherme Biro met it with a powerful header, beating Jonathan Bond to make it 2–0. It was Bukari’s sixth assist of the season, and Biro’s finish gave Austin breathing room heading into the break.
The first half ended with Austin firmly in control. They limited Houston’s attacking options, while the Verde & Black created chances that could have stretched the lead further. At that point, the home crowd could sense a convincing victory.
The second half began with Houston adjusting their shape and pushing higher up the field. Austin still looked sharp in possession, but as the minutes ticked away, Houston’s persistence began to pay off. The Dynamo’s substitutions injected energy, and Austin found themselves dropping deeper to protect their advantage.
In the 80th minute, the match shifted dramatically. Houston earned a penalty after Pablo Ortiz was judged to have been fouled in the box following a VAR review. Jack McGlynn stepped to the spot and confidently converted, cutting the deficit to 2–1 and giving the visitors renewed hope.
The equalizer came just nine minutes later. Lawrence Ennali created space on the right and played a low ball into the area. McGlynn timed his run perfectly, finishing coolly past Brad Stuver to level the score at 2–2. From a commanding position, Austin suddenly found themselves scrambling to hold on in the final moments.
Statistically, Austin held more possession and looked the sharper side for long stretches. But the inability to close the game out proved costly, while Houston’s clinical finishing in the final 10 minutes highlighted their resilience. Goalkeeper Jonathan Bond also played a key role for the Dynamo, making several stops earlier in the second half to keep his team within reach.
For Austin, the draw felt like a loss. After controlling the flow and earning a two-goal cushion, the team saw three points slip away due to lapses in concentration and defensive errors. The result also leaves them with work to do in the Western Conference playoff picture, where margins remain razor thin.
For Houston, it was a point earned through determination and persistence. McGlynn’s brace not only salvaged the evening but also underlined the Dynamo’s ability to fight back under pressure. The visitors left Q2 Stadium with momentum and a result that may prove crucial in their own playoff pursuit.
All Gas, No Brakes! MLS Outshines Liga MX Under Austin Lights!
It all begins with an idea.
AUSTIN, TX — In the 2025 edition of the MLS All-Star Game, Major League Soccer’s top talent delivered a commanding 3–1 victory over the Liga MX All-Stars on Thursday night at Q2 Stadium. A capacity crowd of 20,738 filled the stands in Austin as MLS secured its third win in four All-Star matchups between the two leagues.
The scoring began in the 28th minute, when Sam Surridge rose above the defense to head home a corner kick from Denis Bouanga, putting MLS ahead 1–0. Just after the break, Tai Baribo doubled the lead in the 51st minute, finishing off a well-placed assist from Diego Rossi following a swift attacking move.
Liga MX responded in the 64th minute through 16-year-old Gilberto Mora, who pulled one back with a calm finish inside the box. However, Brian White restored the two-goal cushion in the 80th minute, converting a low cross from Philip Zinckernagel to close out the scoring.
Baribo, representing the Philadelphia Union, was named MLS All-Star Game MVP for his second-half goal and overall attacking impact.
Goalkeeper Roman Bürki played a steady role in net for MLS, recording several crucial saves in the closing stretch to deny Liga MX a late comeback.
With the result, MLS improves its record to 3–1 in head-to-head All-Star matches against Liga MX since the series began in 2021. Despite the absence of international stars like Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba, the match drew strong attendance and delivered a fast-paced, entertaining 90 minutes that highlighted the growing depth and quality across both leagues.
Late Equalizer Lifts Dynamo to 1–1 Draw Against Union
Danny Jefferson | July 19th, 2025
HOUSTON — On July 19, 2025, Houston Dynamo and Philadelphia Union played to a 1–1 draw at Shell Energy Stadium in a gritty Jägermeister Cup group stage matchup, their final test before the All-Star break. With both teams aiming to stay sharp ahead of the second half of the regular season, the match delivered physicality, structure, and just enough drama to satisfy a steamy summer night in Texas.
Philadelphia got on the board first in the 15th minute when veteran Alejandro Bedoya slipped away from his marker and finished a recycled corner with a calm strike into the bottom left. The Dynamo responded well and were rewarded deep into first-half stoppage time. After a lengthy VAR review, a penalty was awarded for a handball in the box. Jack McGlynn, facing his former club, converted from the spot in the 45+10th minute to bring Houston level.
The second half saw Philadelphia maintain more possession—just over 60%—but chances were limited as Houston’s back line stayed compact. Jonathan Bond came up big in goal for the Dynamo, making a pair of late saves to preserve the point, including a punch clearance in the 84th minute and a quick reaction to stop a redirected shot in the 88th.
Tensions flared in added time when the Union were reduced to 10 men after Westfield was shown a second yellow in the 90+9th minute, halting their late push for a winner. Houston nearly took advantage with one last corner, but the header drifted wide.
The energy inside Shell Energy Stadium reflected the urgency from both sides. With the All-Star break looming, both teams looked determined to keep momentum rolling into the playoff push. Houston’s fans roared after the equalizer and rode every late opportunity with intensity. For a team that’s just on the edge of the Western Conference playoff line, the Dynamo’s resilience and late fight were encouraging signs.
Philadelphia, sitting in the middle of the Eastern table, will be frustrated by the missed opportunity to grab all three points on the road. Still, they’ll enter the break in solid standing, though they’ll need to find sharper finishing in tight matches down the stretch.
Both clubs will use the break to reset and refocus. Houston returns to action against LA Galaxy in another pivotal home match, while Philadelphia heads west again to face Colorado Rapids. As the playoff picture tightens, every point starts to matter — and this draw could carry weight come fall.
Houston Dynamo Handle Austin FC at Home with 2–0 Victory
HOUSTON — Houston Dynamo looked sharp and composed Saturday night as they secured a 2–0 win over in-state rivals Austin FC at Shell Energy Stadium. The match, held on April 26, saw goals from Ondřej Lingr and Ezequiel Ponce in the second half, giving Dynamo an important three points as they continue to climb the Western Conference standings.
The first half was tightly contested, with both teams exchanging possessions and feeling each other out. Houston started to settle in after the break. Lingr opened the scoring in the 61st minute with a clinical finish from inside the box after Dynamo's midfield put together a patient build-up. The goal shifted momentum heavily in Houston’s favor.
From there, Dynamo kept pressing and eventually capitalized again in the 79th minute. Ponce found the back of the net after a defensive lapse from Austin, calmly slotting home the second and all but sealing the match. The energy in Shell Energy Stadium picked up immediately as the home fans erupted, sensing the result was in hand.
Austin had some moments in the match but struggled to generate quality chances. They managed eight total shots but only two were on target. Their attack, led by Sebastián Driussi, never truly broke through the disciplined Dynamo back line. Houston keeper Steve Clark stayed solid and rarely looked threatened.
The midfield battle was key. Houston’s Obafemi Awodesu and Griffin Dorsey did well to disrupt Austin’s rhythm and launch quick transitions the other way. That tempo gave Houston the upper hand in the second half and led directly to both goals.
Possession stats were nearly even—Houston with 50.6% and Austin with 49.4%—but it was the hosts who made more of their time on the ball. Houston registered 11 shots, six of them on frame, showing greater sharpness in the final third.
A crowd of 17,808 turned up for this Texas derby, and the atmosphere was electric throughout. Every touch and tackle drew a reaction, and yellow cards flew on both sides as emotions ran high. Houston ended with three bookings, while Austin collected five.
With this result, Houston bumps their record to 7-6-11, putting them at 27 points and closer to playoff contention. Austin stays ahead in the standings at 9-6-8, but dropped points on the road might come back to haunt them down the stretch.
Up next, Houston travels to face FC Dallas, while Austin will look to bounce back at home against San Diego FC. For Dynamo, the win couldn’t have come at a better time as they push for consistency in the second half of the season.
Austin FC Secures Narrow 1–0 Victory Over LA Galaxy at Q2 Stadium over the reigning MLS champs.
Danny Jefferson | April 19, 2025
In a tightly contested Western Conference matchup on Saturday afternoon, Austin FC edged out the LA Galaxy 1–0 at Q2 Stadium. The lone goal came in the 81st minute, with forward Brandon Vázquez capitalizing on a deflected cross to give the hosts all three points.
The first half saw both teams struggling to break down each other's defenses. Austin controlled possession early on but failed to convert their opportunities. The Galaxy, despite their efforts, couldn't find a way past Austin's defense, leading to a goalless draw at halftime.
A pivotal moment occurred in the 64th minute when Austin was awarded a penalty after a foul in the box. Vázquez stepped up to take the shot, but Galaxy goalkeeper John McCarthy made a crucial save, keeping the score level and adding to the mounting pressure on the home side.
Despite the missed penalty, Austin continued to press forward. Their persistence paid off in the 81st minute when a cross into the box was deflected by Galaxy defender Emiro Garcés into the path of Vázquez, who made no mistake from close range, scoring the match-winning goal.
The goal was a significant moment for Vázquez, who had been under scrutiny for his earlier miss. His composure in front of goal demonstrated his resilience and proved vital for Austin's success in the match.
Defensively, Austin was solid throughout the game. Goalkeeper Brad Stuver maintained his focus, earning his fifth clean sheet of the season. His performance between the posts was instrumental in securing the victory and showcasing Austin's defensive strength.
The match also marked a historic achievement for Austin FC, as the attendance of 20,738 fans set a new league record for the most consecutive home sellouts in MLS history. This milestone underscores the growing support and passion of the Austin fanbase.
For the Galaxy, the loss extended their winless streak, highlighting ongoing challenges in their campaign. Despite moments of promise, they were unable to capitalize on their chances, leaving them with much to address moving forward.
Looking ahead, Austin FC will aim to build on this hard-fought victory as they continue their push for a strong position in the Western Conference standings. The team's resilience and ability to secure late wins will be crucial in the coming weeks.
In summary, Austin's narrow 1–0 win over the LA Galaxy was a testament to their determination and defensive solidity. Vázquez's late goal and Stuver's clean sheet were key highlights, while the record-setting crowd added to the significance of the match.
San Diego FC Falls 2–1 to Austin FC in First-Ever Meeting at Q2 Stadium
Daniel Jefferson | March 23, 2025
AUSTIN, TX — On March 23, 2025, Austin FC welcomed MLS newcomers San Diego FC to Q2 Stadium for the first time and came out on top with a hard-fought 2–1 victory. The win handed San Diego their first loss in Major League Soccer and kept Austin unbeaten at home in the early part of the season.
Austin came out sharp, controlling tempo and creating opportunities from the first whistle. Just 10 minutes in, striker Brandon Vázquez opened his account with the club, capitalizing on a defensive error to slot home the opener. It was a confident finish that set the tone and ignited the crowd at Q2.
Nine minutes later, Jon Gallagher doubled the lead. After a quick restart from Owen Wolff caught San Diego off guard, Gallagher timed his run perfectly and buried a low shot into the far corner. The early 2–0 cushion gave Austin the breathing room they needed, but it was far from a comfortable night.
San Diego FC pulled one back in the 27th minute when Luca de la Torre found space at the top of the box and drilled a low shot past Brad Stuver. The goal was a turning point in the first half, shifting the momentum slightly as San Diego began to settle into the match.
The second half saw the visitors turn up the pressure. San Diego controlled more possession and found their rhythm in midfield, but Austin remained organized defensively. Bob Bradley’s side made attacking substitutions, bringing on fresh legs to stretch the game, yet Austin’s back line refused to break.
One of the biggest moments came in the 74th minute when Evan Conway slipped past the defense and forced a diving stop from Stuver. The rebound nearly led to a second goal, but Gallagher hustled back to block the follow-up. It was a gritty sequence that showcased Austin’s commitment on both ends of the field.
The crowd of over 20,000 at Q2 Stadium played their part as well. The energy never dropped, especially during the tense final 20 minutes. The fans fueled Austin through every tackle and clearance, creating a hostile environment that clearly challenged the expansion side.
Despite the loss, San Diego showed flashes of potential, with De la Torre and Ronaldo Damus causing trouble in wide areas. But the result was a reminder that Q2 remains one of the toughest places to play in MLS. Austin moved to nine points in the Western Conference standings, while San Diego held on to eight.
The early playoff race is already heating up, and this win could prove pivotal down the line. With momentum building heading into the next stretch of the season, Austin is showing signs of a team that’s finding its identity—and winning tough matches at home is a major part of that formula.