Austin FC Faces Tough Road Ahead After Recent Losses

Austin FC’s 2026 season clings to life after a promising unbeaten stretch from mid-August to late September. The team has now fallen into a dire situation following three consecutive defeats.

Prior warnings indicated a challenging period awaited Austin FC after the early October international break, involving matches against Nashville SC, LAFC, and the Vancouver Whitecaps—three top MLS teams—in just eight days. It was anticipated that the Verde and Black would need to gather at least four points during this stretch to stay competitive for a playoff spot. However, they ended up with zero points.

Following a 4-1 home loss to Nashville, Austin also suffered a 3-1 setback in Los Angeles and then returned home only to lose 2-1 to Vancouver last Saturday.

“They’re good teams. They’re very good teams, and against these very good teams, you have to be performing at a top level from the start of the game, which we haven’t been,” interim head coach Davy Arnaud stated.

As the losing streak leaves Austin FC with 31 points, they find themselves in 14th place out of 15, trailing the final playoff spot by eight points. With only four matches left, a nearly flawless finish to the season is imperative for any hope of a turnaround.

Fortunately, the toughest opponents are behind them. Austin’s remaining schedule includes matches against Sporting Kansas City, Real Salt Lake at home, LA Galaxy away, and a final home game against the Portland Timbers—all teams with a poorer record than Austin.

Sporting Kansas City is having a notably poor season, accumulating only 22 points with a -39 goal differential, heading for potentially the worst end-of-season mark since at least 2019.

Failing to secure a win at Sporting Park on Saturday would likely spell the end of any playoffs aspirations for Austin FC.

In terms of fan support, the absence of the supporter group La Murga de Austin was felt during the last two home matches due to ongoing disputes with the club concerning issues related to ICE.

An official statement from the club on Oct. 16 acknowledged the situation and expressed understanding toward its supporters, noting several actions were being considered, though specifics were not disclosed.

This lack of a vigorous home atmosphere was impressive to Arnaud. “It’s quiet compared to what it normally is,” he remarked. “In these games, you would hope that everyone is behind the team and inspiring the team. In these tough games, especially playing at home, you need that.”

Brad Stuver, the team’s goalkeeper and community advocate, shared his perspective on the situation’s complexities, emphasizing the necessity for a safe environment for all community members while respecting differing protest methods.

For more Austin FC updates and analysis, visit The Austin Chronicle’s dedicated Austin FC hub.