AUSTIN, TEXAS – October 29, 2025: Austin FC faces a crucial moment in its MLS playoff journey as they prepare to host LAFC for Game 2 of their Western Conference quarterfinals series at Q2 Stadium on Sunday. Currently trailing 1-0 in the best-of-three series, the Verde & Black will need a win to extend their season and force a decisive Game 3 in Los Angeles next Saturday.
In the first match, Austin FC displayed resilience but fell short, losing 2-1 despite a gritty effort. The team will need to enhance its offensive pressure while maintaining the defensive tenacity that kept LAFC’s star forwards Denis Bouanga and Son Heung-min in check during Game 1. Forward Myrto Uzuni emphasized the need for a more direct approach in attack, stating, “We have to put more balls in the box to have chances.”
Austin FC’s head coach, Nico Estévez, aims to strike a balance between aggression and tactical control, especially given LAFC’s prowess in counterattacks. “Having long possessions is a way to control their counterattack,” he noted, stressing the importance of being strategically sound while pushing forward.
A potential concern for Austin FC is the status of designated player Osman Bukari, who suffered a minor ankle injury in Game 1. Estévez has not ruled him out, but Bukari’s absence would significantly affect the team’s depth, particularly with forward Diego Rubio already sidelined due to injury. Should Bukari be unable to play, Robert Taylor could start on the right flank, though Estévez might consider other lineup adjustments to maintain offensive strength.
Austin FC has not hosted a playoff game since the 2022 Western Conference semifinals, adding to the stakes of this matchup. The team will count on its home-field advantage and the support of local fans to rally against LAFC and secure a spot in the next round.
As anticipation builds for kickoff at 7:45 p.m., the hope remains high for the Verde & Black to capitalize on their physicality and determination, with a prediction of a closely contested match that could end in a penalty shootout, ensuring Austin FC fights another day in the playoffs.