Uzuni’s Late Strike Seals Dramatic 2–1 Win for Austin FC Over Seattle Sounders

By Alonso Contreras

Austin FC snatched a dramatic 2–1 victory over the Seattle Sounders in a pulsating encounter at Q2 Stadium, with Myrto Uzuni’s stoppage-time strike proving decisive. The game was a rollercoaster of opportunities, tactical battles, and late-game heroics, leaving both sets of fans on edge until the final whistle.

First Half: Rubio Gives Austin the Early Advantage

Austin FC drew first blood in the 42nd minute when Diego Rubio capitalized on a well-worked move. Assisted by Jon Gallagher, Rubio fired a precise right-footed shot from the center of the box into the bottom right corner, giving Austin a 1–0 lead. Prior to the goal, Austin had created sporadic chances, with Myrto Uzuni testing Andrew Thomas with a left-footed effort that was comfortably saved in the 45th minute.

Seattle Sounders struggled to find rhythm early but remained a threat through set-pieces. Albert Rusnák orchestrated several corners, and Cristian Roldán came close with a header in the 37th minute, only for Brad Stuver to make a crucial save. The half ended 1–0 in favor of Austin, with the hosts narrowly holding their lead.

Second Half: Seattle Strikes Back

Seattle began the second half with renewed intensity, pressing high and testing Austin’s defense. In the 46th minute, Georgi Minoungou leveled the score with a right-footed strike from the center of the box, assisted by Danny Musovski and Cristian Roldán. The goal came almost immediately after the restart, giving Seattle a psychological boost.

Both teams traded chances throughout the second half. Austin’s Osman Bukari and Ilie Sánchez threatened from distance, while Seattle’s Jordan Morris and Minoungou both forced Stuver into key saves. The match grew increasingly physical, with multiple fouls and yellow cards, including Paul Rothrock and Jesús Ferreira for Seattle and disciplinary cautions for Austin’s players.

Final Drama: Uzuni’s Decisive Goal

The match seemed destined for a draw until the dying moments. In the sixth minute of stoppage time, CJ Fodrey threaded a perfect pass to Myrto Uzuni inside the box. With calm composure, Uzuni slotted a left-footed shot into the lower-left central zone, with a second assist credited to Dani Pereira. The goal sent the home crowd into euphoria and sealed a dramatic 2–1 win for Austin FC.

Key Performers

• Myrto Uzuni (Austin FC): Scored the match-winner in stoppage time and constantly troubled Seattle’s backline.

• Diego Rubio (Austin FC): Opened the scoring with a clinical finish, anchoring Austin’s attack.

• Brad Stuver (Austin FC): Made several crucial saves to keep Seattle at bay and maintain the lead.

• Georgi Minoungou (Seattle Sounders): Scored a well-timed equalizer and caused problems with his movement throughout.

Conclusion

Austin FC displayed resilience and tactical awareness to edge out Seattle Sounders in a match full of late-game drama. Seattle’s persistent attacking efforts were met with stiff resistance and timely interventions from Austin’s goalkeeper and defenders. Uzuni’s late strike not only secured the win but highlighted Austin’s capacity for clutch performances in high-pressure situations.