Austin FC Preps for Final Regular Season Home Match Against LAFC
Playoff Push Comes Down to the Wire
As the 2025 MLS regular season winds down, Austin FC finds itself on the brink of clinching a playoff berth. The Verde and Black will host high-flying LAFC this Sunday in their final home match of the campaign, with three crucial points on the line.
Austin currently sits in 5th place in the Western Conference, just one point ahead of 7th-place Portland Timbers. A win over the conference leaders would go a long way towards securing Austin's first-ever postseason appearance.
"This is a massive game for us," said head coach Nico Estévez. "LAFC are an excellent side, but we know we can beat them if we bring the right intensity and execute our game plan."
Roster Depth Tested
Austin has dealt with its fair share of injuries and absences this season, and that trend has continued heading into the LAFC clash. Midfielders Nathan Ordaz and Mathieu Choiniere will miss the match due to international duty, while defenders Aaron Long, Igor Jesus, Odin Holm, and Lorenzo Dellavalle remain sidelined.
That means key contributors like Jeremy Ebobisse, Nkosi Tafari, Eddie Segura, and Besard Sabovic will need to step up if Austin hopes to topple the Western Conference leaders. Head coach Estévez has adjusted his tactics in recent weeks, shifting to a 3-4-2-1 formation that has simplified things for the backline.
"We've had to deal with a lot of adversity this year, but the guys have shown tremendous resilience," said Estévez. "I have full confidence that the players who take the field on Sunday will leave it all out there for the fans."
Supporters Gear Up for Finale
The Austin faithful have embraced their MLS club with open arms since its inception in 2023, and they're set to turn Q2 Stadium into a cauldron of noise for the season finale. CapMetro is offering free rides on the Red Line to the match, allowing fans to pack the stands and create an electric atmosphere.
"This is the biggest game of our young history," said Austin FC supporter group leader Julio Ramirez. "The players have worked so hard all year, and we're going to do everything we can to give them that extra boost they need to get the win."
The club is also hosting "Noche VERDE," a celebration of Austin's passionate fanbase, with additional festivities and giveaways planned throughout the day.
Playoff Implications Abound
While LAFC have already booked their spot in the postseason, the visitors still have plenty to play for on Sunday. A win would secure them the top seed in the Western Conference, giving them a valuable advantage as they look to capture their first MLS Cup.
"We know Austin is going to be up for this one, and we're expecting a real battle," said LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo. "But our guys are ready for the challenge. We want to build momentum heading into the playoffs, and taking three points on the road would be a great way to do that."
TL;DR
- Austin FC hosts LAFC in their final regular season home match, with a playoff berth on the line.
- The Verde and Black have dealt with numerous injuries and absences, but coach Nico Estévez has adapted his tactics to keep the team in the hunt.
- Austin's fervent supporters are gearing up to create a raucous atmosphere at Q2 Stadium, with CapMetro offering free rides to the match.
- While LAFC have already clinched a playoff spot, they're still fighting for the top seed in the Western Conference and will provide a stern test for the home side.