Short-handed Austin FC beat Pumas in Leagues Cup opener

Austin FC forward Gyasi Zardes (9) competes against St. Louis City in the first half of an MLS soccer match, Saturday, March 9, 2024, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Stephen Spillman)

AUSTIN (KXAN) – Austin FC’s recent rough patch during MLS regular season play ended quickly with an impressive 3-2 victory over Pumas in their Leagues Cup opener.

Austin struck early for the home crowd, getting on the scoreboard first with an eighth-minute goal from Alex Ring. The hosts suffered a major setback later in the first half when Osman Bukari was shown a second yellow card, which resulted in a red card.

Down a man, Austin was still able to extend their lead, with Gyasi Zardes scoring the second goal of the game in the 45th minute to give the MLS club a 2-0 lead.

Liga MX’s Pumas came back with an own goal in injury time to halve their lead. Josh Wolff’s group would then extend their lead once more with a goal from Sebastian Driussi early in the second half to extend their lead to 3-1.

Pumas’ second goal came in the 72nd minute and it was to be their last. It looked as if they would equalize in second-half injury time after being awarded a penalty, but an unlikely hero stepped up for Austin.

Stefan Cleveland, replacing regular goalkeeper Brad Stuver who was resting, saved the Pumas’ penalty to effectively seal Austin FC’s victory, being overwhelmed by teammates and sending another capacity crowd at Q2 Stadium into an eruption.

Last year, the Verde and Black lost both Leagues Cup matches at home and failed to progress beyond the group stage.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stage. Austin, who will take three points from the win, will host Monterrey at the Q2 Stadium on Tuesday night.