It only took eight minutes for Austin FC to let in its first goal against San Diego FC on Wednesday. From there, Verde allowed the hosts to break a nine-match winless streak in an ultimate Slumpbuster FC performance.
The MLS Players Association released salary numbers on Tuesday. We learned some details about the high and low ends of the salary spectrum, and what that might mean going forward.
A minutes restriction on two midfielders kept Austin FC head coach Nico Estévez from making a move earlier to match James. Still, his team grabbed a point away in a travel-heavy week.
Verde got out to a 1-0 halftime lead on a Myrto Uzuni penalty kick, James had two assists to give Verde the lead, and then a former Loons legend provided Austin FC the equalizer.
Austin FC and Minnesota United FC resume what's been a fun series to follow on Sunday night. We get some intel about the Loons, including insights on why James didn't work out.
Both Christian Ramírez and Myrto Uzuni are approaching their 2025 goal contribution totals this season. How does that compare to what the underlying per-90 numbers say?
The first goal took a while to arrive ... and it was very nearly a St. Louis goal in transition. But the shutout win is giving Austin FC more confidence heading into two straight away matches.
It took a while for Austin FC to score — but then the hosts did so, twice, leading to a second straight win. Three long-absent players also saw minutes for Verde in the effort.
St. Louis City SC is one of just two teams below Austin FC in the West standings. But, like Austin, they might be better than their record indicates, especially with one key player returning.
Depending on how Wednesday's doctor appointment goes, long-sidelined striker Brandon Vázquez could see action on Sunday. Also, Owen Wolff may make his season debut.
After 10 matches, Austin FC has 10 points and is outside of the playoff places. But, despite some grim key metrics, the next five matches could prove transformative.
Austin FC players took a very "not too high, not too low" stance following Saturday night's match. But they also got a welcome shutout win and got a solid Copa Tejas boost as well.
