Christian Ramirez scores winner for new team, Austin tops D.C. 1-0

Ramirez's headed goal in the 82nd minute was the difference as Austin FC defeated D.C. United.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Christian Ramirez's headed goal in the 82nd minute was all host Austin FC needed to produce a 1-0 win over D.C. United on Sunday afternoon. Ramirez, whom Austin acquired off waivers from the Los Angeles Galaxy two days prior, was in the right place at the right time at the far post to direct a deflected shot into the right side of the net after Besard Sabovic's shot from the left side of the box drew D.C. United goalkeeper Sean Johnson off his line. Austin (1-0-1, 4 points) captured its first win of the year after opening the campaign with a 2-2 tie with Minnesota United. D.C. United (1-1-0, 3 points) dropped their first game after beating Philadelphia 1-0 to start the year.

Why it matters

This match marked the first win of the season for Austin FC, who are looking to build on their inaugural campaign in 2026. For D.C. United, the loss was their first of the young season after opening with a victory, and they'll look to bounce back in their next match.

The details

Ramirez's goal came in the 82nd minute after Besard Sabovic's shot from the left side of the box drew D.C. United goalkeeper Sean Johnson off his line. The ball bounced off D.C. defender Matti Peltola and right to Ramirez, who headed it into the right side of the net. Austin goalkeeper Brad Stuver had to make just two saves to record the clean sheet, while Johnson made eight saves for D.C. United.

  • The match was played on Sunday, March 2, 2026.
  • Ramirez's game-winning goal came in the 82nd minute.

The players

Christian Ramirez

A forward who was recently acquired by Austin FC off waivers from the Los Angeles Galaxy and scored the game-winning goal in the 82nd minute.

Brad Stuver

The goalkeeper for Austin FC who recorded the clean sheet, making two saves.

Sean Johnson

The goalkeeper for D.C. United who made eight saves in the match.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This match showcased the importance of new additions like Ramirez for Austin FC as they look to build on their inaugural season, while D.C. United will need to regroup after their first loss of the year.