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When Austin FC took the field against Pumas UNAM, few could have predicted the turn that was to come. On an electrifying night at Q2 Stadium, the Texan club showed impressive resilience and claimed a historic 3-2 victory, even with a man down. This win not only shattered expectations in West Group 1, but also put Austin FC in a favorable position to advance in the tournament, giving their aspirations a huge boost.
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The game started on the right foot for Austin FC, with Alex Ring opening the scoring and Gyasi Zardes extending the lead. Even after the premature dismissal of Osman Bukari, who left the team with 10 players in the first half, the team did not falter. The Pumas were under pressure and managed to reduce the score with Ali Ávila’s goal, but the real show would come in the second half.
Austin FC talisman Sebastián Driussi, who had been on a two-month goal drought, finally broke it by scoring the winner. It was a moment of pure ecstasy for the fans and for the player himself, who celebrated wildly. “He’s been waiting for this goal,” coach Josh Wolff said. “He knows how important he is to this team and we need him to perform because it just lifts those around him, it just increases the intensity, the confidence, the hunger of the group.”
Driussi, who was one of the highlights of the 2022 season with 22 goals and 7 assists, has shown that he still has a lot to offer. His presence on the field is a source of inspiration for his teammates and a nightmare for opponents. “When he scores goals, he starts to become the Seba we know,” added Wolff.
But Driussi did not stand out alone. Backup goalkeeper Stefan Cleveland, who was making his first start in almost a year, also played a crucial role in the win. After a poor start, Cleveland redeemed themselves by saving a penalty in injury time, securing the three points for Austin FC. “I think he did an unbelievable job when he was asked to and needed to take that penalty, there’s no doubt about that. I wouldn’t say it was perfect for him, but when the time came, he responded,” Wolff said.
The win against the Pumas puts Austin FC in a commanding position in the group, but the challenge is far from over. Next Tuesday, the club will face the mighty Monterrey and a win could guarantee qualification to the knockout stages of the League Cup.
“Let’s enjoy tonight, we’ll get ready for Monterrey in a few days,” Wolff said. “The boys showed their will, their character and of course their quality. It was a remarkable display of courage.”
This triumph is a reminder that nothing is guaranteed in football. Austin FC proved that determination and grit can overcome the toughest odds.
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