Resiliency is the word of the day, as Austin FC rallied from a three-goal deficit to draw San Diego FC and stay in the playoff race. Despite an eight-match unbeaten streak, the postseason could hinge on beating MLS' best team.
Austin FC has now played four matches implementing Davy Arnaud's new style. While the league matches don't show much statistical movement, Verde's most recent match provides some encouragement.
Brandon Vázquez was a participant in Monday's practice. Three players key to Verde's 2026 success were not.
Certainly, you remember at least two of the PKs that Austin FC missed this season. But do you remember the ones they made?
We learned a little bit more about Nicky Beloko's brief sojourn in Austin, and quite a bit about why Austin FC's sporting director didn't bring in more players during the summer transfer window.
In which I answer mostly soccer questions at the end of this break in the Austin FC season.
With Brandon Vázquez now out, who will take the center forward minutes, and who will score goals?
Brandon Vázquez now has a third of the goals that Sam Surridge does; Nico Estévez explained his selection process as part of an eventful Wednesday.
Brad Stuver and Brandon Vázquez will represent Austin FC at the 2025 MLS All-Star Game, which will be staged at Q2 Stadium on July 23.
Robert Taylor won't play Saturday, but will perhaps help Austin achieve a duality Nico Estévez suggests might be borne of desire, which is the root of all suffering (but not quite in those words).
Five clean sheets. Five wins, four by a 1-0 margin. That's good for second in the West ... but what does it mean for a Verde squad still thinking it can do better?
Finally, a goal from open play! That sent Verde on the way to a win and rising to second place in the West.
