Austin FC returns to Q2 Stadium this Saturday afternoon for the team’s fifth home match of the season, where they will face off against LA Galaxy at 12:45 p.m. CT. Fans can catch the action live in English or Spanish across more than 100 countries via MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, with national broadcasts available on FOX and FOX Deportes.
The Verde & Black are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 5-1 defeat against Vancouver Whitecaps FC last weekend. Dani Pereira managed to score a consolation goal in the 90th minute, while goalkeeper Brad Stuver made six saves, including a crucial penalty kick save against Daniel Ríos in the 72nd minute. Currently, Austin FC sits in sixth place in the MLS Western Conference with a record of 4-1-3.
In their last encounter with LA Galaxy at Q2 Stadium in April 2024, Austin FC secured a decisive 2-0 victory, thanks to goals from Diego Rubio and Jáder Obrian in the first half. The team is eager to replicate that success and gain three points at home as they prepare for their first Copa Tejas match of the season against Houston Dynamo FC next weekend.
On the other hand, LA Galaxy finds itself at the bottom of the Western Conference standings with a record of 0-5-3. Their last outing resulted in a 1-1 draw against Houston Dynamo, where they managed to equalize despite being down to ten men after defender Mathias Jørgensen received a straight red card in the 28th minute. The Galaxy will be looking to turn their fortunes around and secure their first win of the season against Austin FC.
As Austin FC prepares for this crucial match, they will have to cope without the experienced duo of Mikkel Desler and Diego Rubio, both sidelined due to hamstring issues. However, Stuver’s recent form provides a glimmer of hope for the hosts. With USMNT forward Brandon Vazquez and club-record signing Myrto Uzuni leading the line, Austin FC aims to capitalize on LA Galaxy's defensive vulnerabilities, having conceded 15 goals this season, the third-highest in the league.
LA Galaxy, meanwhile, will also be missing key players. Marco Reus is out with a knee injury, Maya Yoshida is sidelined due to a hamstring problem, and Riqui Puig continues his recovery from an ACL injury, leaving the Galaxy short on options. The absence of these players could significantly impact their performance against a determined Austin FC.
Austin FC's strong start to the season saw them conceding just three goals in their opening seven matches, showcasing their defensive prowess. However, their recent collapse against Vancouver raised questions about their resilience. Coach Josh Wolff will be urging his players to tighten up defensively and regain their early-season form.
In the lead-up to the match, there’s a palpable sense of urgency for both teams. For Austin FC, a win would not only boost their standings but also restore confidence after the heavy defeat. For LA Galaxy, the pressure is mounting to secure their first victory and climb out of the bottom of the table.
As the match approaches, fans are eager to see how both teams will respond to their respective challenges. Austin FC will be looking to leverage their home advantage, while LA Galaxy will aim to defy the odds and finally get their season on track.
The match promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams vie for crucial points in the standings. With the stakes high, fans can expect a thrilling display of soccer at Q2 Stadium this Saturday.
Kickoff is set for 12:45 p.m. CT, and viewers can tune in through various platforms including Fubo, DirecTV Stream, and the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
