Austin FC has suffered a blow to its 2025 playoff push, as their main striker, Brandon Vazquez, has been sidelined for the rest of the season following a torn ACL in his right knee. The injury came during Tuesday’s U.S. Open Cup match, which ended in a penalty shootout win over the San Jose Earthquakes.
Confirmation of the diagnosis came from the club on Thursday, with a tone of disappointment. Sporting director Rodolfo Borrell shared the team’s feelings, saying, “Everybody at Austin FC is heartbroken about Brandon’s injury.” He added that the club would give him full support during his recovery journey.
At 26 years old, Vazquez had been enjoying an impressive return season in Major League Soccer after spending time with CF Monterrey. Over 22 games, he had already scored nine goals and provided one assist.
His strong performance had earned him a second career MLS All-Star selection, which he will now miss due to the knee injury.
Adjustments in Attack for the Remaining Season
In response to this issue, Austin FC will now depend on Diego Rubio, Osman Bukari, and their club-record signing Myrto Uzuni to step up and carry the attacking duties.
The team, also known as the Verde & Black, is currently in ninth place in the Western Conference standings. They have 26 points, the same as Houston and Colorado, and are barely holding onto the last Wild Card playoff spot as competition for postseason spots becomes tighter.
