Austin FC Hosts Club Puebla in Leagues Cup Showdown at Q2 Stadium

What’s Happening?

Austin FC is back in action at home this Sunday night! After a strong opening win, the Verde & Black take on Club Puebla in their second Leagues Cup group stage match. Here’s everything you need to know — explained simply.

Match Details at a Glance

How Austin Got Here: Win Over Tijuana

Austin kicked off the tournament with a 2–0 victory over Club Tijuana on Thursday night at Q2 Stadium. Here’s how it happened:

1. 16th minute: Myrto Uzuni set up Joseph Rosales for the opening goal — the crowd went wild!
2. First-half stoppage time (45+2′): Jon Gallagher scored to make it 2–0.
3. Final score: 2–0. Austin’s defense held strong, and goalkeeper Brad Stuver earned a clean sheet.

Fun Fact: This was Austin’s third straight win against a LIGA MX team — momentum is on their side!

What’s at Stake? (The Tournament Format Made Simple)

The Leagues Cup brings together MLS and LIGA MX teams. Here’s how Phase One works:

• Each team plays 3 group stage matches.
• Top teams advance to the Knockout Round Bracket (single-elimination playoffs).
• Austin is 1 of 10 MLS teams with 3 points after one match (a win = 3 points).
• A win Sunday would put Austin in a great spot to qualify.

Meet the Opponent: Club Puebla

Recent Form

• Lost 5–0 to Portland Timbers on Thursday.
• Conceded 5 goals, including two each from Ariel Lassiter and Cole Bassett.
• Desperate for a bounce-back win.

Coaching & History

• Head Coach: Gerardo Espinoza (newly appointed).
• 2025 Leagues Cup: Reached the quarterfinals — first time in club history!
  • Beat NYCFC and Columbus Crew in group stage.
  • Lost to Seattle Sounders FC on penalties in the knockout round.

What Puebla Needs

• Must win Sunday to stay in contention for a top-4 spot in the LIGA MX standings.
• Final group match: vs. San Diego FC on Wednesday, August 12.

Key Player to Watch: Brad Stuver

Austin’s goalkeeper has been rock-solid. He kept a clean sheet vs. Tijuana and will need to do it again Sunday. If Stuver shuts out Puebla, Austin will have back-to-back clean sheets to start the tournament — a huge confidence booster.

Important Points to Remember

CALLOUT: WHY THIS MATCH MATTERS

• Austin can take a big step toward the Knockout Round with a win.
• Puebla is wounded but dangerous — they’ll fight hard after a 5–0 loss.
• Home crowd at Q2 Stadium could be the difference-maker.
• Three points = 6 points total = very strong position in the group.

Summary

• Austin FC beat Tijuana 2–0 to open Leagues Cup 2026.
• They host Puebla Sunday at 8 PM CT at Q2 Stadium.
• A win puts Austin in prime position to reach the Knockout Round.
• Puebla lost 5–0 to Portland and needs a win to stay alive.
• Tune in on Alt 97.5 (English) or TUDN Radio Austin 104.3 HD2 (Spanish).

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

1. What is the Leagues Cup?

It’s an annual tournament between MLS (USA/Canada) and LIGA MX (Mexico) teams. Think of it like a World Cup for North American club teams — but held every year.

2. How does the group stage work?

Each team plays 3 games. Wins = 3 points, draws = 1 point, losses = 0. Top teams advance to the knockout bracket (win or go home).

3. Why did Puebla lose 5–0? Are they bad?

Not necessarily! Portland played a near-perfect game, and Puebla had a terrible night. In soccer, blowouts happen — even to good teams. They’ll be motivated to prove it was a fluke.

4. Can I watch on TV?

The provided info only lists radio broadcasts. Check Apple TV (MLS Season Pass) or local listings for TV/streaming options.

5. What happens if Austin draws or loses?

• Draw (1 point): Still in good shape, but need a result in Game 3.
• Loss (0 points): Must win final group game and hope for help. Winning Sunday makes life much easier!

Let’s go Verde & Black!
See you at Q2 Stadium — or on the radio!