At the Whistle: Austin FC 0, NYCFC 2; Preseason means nothing
If you like watching Austin FC take shots and score goals, this was not the game for you. But it's still preseason, and key offensive players are still missing.
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If you like watching Austin FC take shots and score goals, this was not the game for you. But it's still preseason, and key offensive players are still missing.
Austin FC started the 2026 preseason with a scoreless draw against San Antonio. But then it announced one of its most consequential player signings ever.
After neutralizing Son Heung-min and Denis Bouanga in the first 2025 playoff matchup between the teams, Verde couldn't do the same in this one.
Austin FC went down early, brought the match back level in the second half, and then ultimately lost the playoff series opener.
In a season finale of no consequence to Austin's playoff fortunes, Owen Wolff got the visitors the early lead. Then, the hosts, desperate to make the playoffs, scored two goals in four minutes.
For 82 minutes, it was dreadful soccer. Then it was pretty great for Austin fans.
Austin FC needed a win or draw on Saturday night to officially qualify for the postseason. They did not do that.
Austin FC equalized as they have throughout this epic run, but couldn't get the second equalizer they needed to send the match into extra time.
Austin FC let in a goal shortly before halftime, and then it got worse. Also, this team plays in a final in four days; they could do with some Taylor Swift advice.
For the second straight match, Austin FC found a way to win at the very last moment. The win propels them into 6th place with just four regular-season games left.
With the Dallas win, Austin FC finishes last in the 2025 Copa Tejas standings, though they're the only Texas team currently in playoff position.