LAFC Faces Austin FC in Key Playoff Preview Match

AUSTIN, Texas — The Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) takes on Austin FC at Q2 Stadium on October 12 in a pivotal matchup that could preview the MLS playoffs. LAFC, riding a six-game winning streak, currently sits third in the Western Conference, while Austin FC holds sixth place after suffering three straight losses.

Both teams have secured their spots in the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs, but their recent performances diverge significantly. While LAFC looks to extend its winning streak, Austin is reeling from a loss in the U.S. Open Cup Final against Nashville.

An LAFC victory could propel the team into first place in the West ahead of Decision Day, when they will close out the regular season against Colorado. Defender Sergi Palencia emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum. “We are in a really good moment now, with confidence,” he stated after training on Friday.

The game was originally scheduled for July 5 but was postponed due to severe weather. This rescheduling means both teams will miss key players due to international duty. LAFC is without top scorers Denis Bouanga and Son Heung-Min, who accounted for 38 of the team’s 63 goals this season.

Despite these absences, LAFC showed its depth with a convincing 2-0 win over Toronto FC recently. Palencia remarked on the challenge of playing without their stars but expressed confidence in their available roster. “We took it personal the other day and we said, ‘Without them we have to win,’” he said.

Austin FC, on the other hand, has struggled offensively, scoring the fewest goals in the Western Conference. Their leading scorer Myrto Uzuni will also miss the match due to international commitments, pushing 21-year-old CJ Fodrey into a more prominent role.

Coach Steve Cherundolo noted the significance of playing in Austin, a venue where his team has historically found success. “Every team gives LAFC their best shot, and we expect the same from Austin,” he said.

With temperatures predicted to be in the low 90s on match day, LAFC will need to adapt to the conditions, as they prepare for their third game in eight days. “It’s going to be a tough game with a little bit of fatigue,” Palencia added.

LAFC remains focused on extending its unbeaten road streak, while Austin FC looks to regain form amid the missing players. The outcome of this match will have lasting implications as both teams head into the playoffs.