Austin FC vs LAFC : The Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs kicked off with a thrilling Round One matchup between Austin FC and Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) on October 29 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, CA. The game marked the first of the best-of-three series, with LAFC narrowly edging out Austin FC by a 2-1 scoreline in an exhilarating contest filled with drama and action.
Match Highlights and Key Moments
The opening 45 minutes were closely contested, but the first goal came early in the 20th minute under unfortunate circumstances for Austin FC. LAFC’s Ryan Hollingshead delivered a low cross into the penalty area that was awkwardly deflected by Austin defender Brendan Hines-Ike into his own net, giving LAFC a 1-0 lead.
Austin FC showed resilience after the halftime break. They increased their offensive pressure and were rewarded in the 63rd minute when Owen Wolff capitalized on a defensive clearance mistake by LAFC. Wolff passed the ball to Jon Gallagher, who was left unmarked near the goal and coolly converted from close range to level the score 1-1.
- The game-winning goal came late in the 79th minute. LAFC’s Denis Bouanga took a shot
- that deflected off an Austin defender and fell to Nathan Ordaz right at the goal line
- who tapped it in for the decisive 2-1 lead. This goal set the tone for the remainder
- of the match, with LAFC holding on to their slim advantage to claim the victory.
Tactical Analysis
Both teams displayed strategic intent but with contrasting philosophies. LAFC emphasized structured defensive organization and quick transitions to exploit Austin’s pressing style. The own goal highlighted the pressure LAFC applied inside Austin’s box.
- Austin, meanwhile, relied on aggressive midfield play and quick combinations
- particularly linking Owen Wolff and Myrto Uzuni to create goal-scoring chances.
- Jon Gallagher’s equalizer was a perfect example of Austin’s tactical
- awareness and ability to capitalize on defensive lapses.
The late goal from LAFC reflected their clinical edge in tight matches — capitalizing on momentary defensive disorganization by Austin to secure the win in what was an intense playoff atmosphere.
Player Performances
- Brendan Hines-Ike (Austin FC) unfortunately scored an own goal but was otherwise solid in defense, putting up key tackles and clearances.
- Jon Gallagher (Austin FC) was a bright spark in attack, showing excellent positioning and finishing skills to equalize for his side.
- Owen Wolff (Austin FC) was instrumental in creating chances and showed composure to assist the equalizing goal.
- Nathan Ordaz (LAFC)’s late goal was decisive for LAFC and showcased his alertness and finishing ability inside the box.
- Denis Bouanga (LAFC) also played a key role by initiating the game-winning goal with a dangerous shot and relentless attacking play.
- Ryan Hollingshead (LAFC) made vital contributions down the flank, including the assist for the own goal.
What This Means for the Series
- With the series opener won, LAFC now holds a 1-0 advantage in this best-of-three
- playoff series over Austin FC. The teams will face off again on November 2 at
- Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, where Austin will look to leverage home advantage to even the series.
The match promises to be fiercely competitive as Austin will aim to bounce back strongly, while LAFC will try to extend their lead and move one step closer to the Western Conference semifinals.
Upcoming Match Details
- Date: November 2, 2025
- Venue: Q2 Stadium, Austin, Texas
- Kickoff Time: 7:30 p.m. CT
- Broadcast: MLS Season Pass (free for Apple TV subscribers), English commentary on iHeart Radio’s ALT 97.5, Spanish commentary on TUDN Radio Austin (104.3-HD2)
The playoff opener between Austin FC and LAFC lived up to its billing with end-to-end action and a narrow 2-1 finish in favor of LAFC. With critical moments coming down to defensive errors and clinical finishes, the match highlighted the fine margins in playoff soccer.
