Austin FC Settles for Draw Against Minnesota United

Late defensive lapse negates strong attacking display from Verde

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Despite a more fluid attacking performance than last season, Austin FC had to settle for a 2-2 draw against Minnesota United in their MLS season opener. The Verde took the lead twice through goals from Brendan Hines-Ike and Myrto Uzuni, but defensive mistakes allowed Minnesota to equalize late and earn a point on the road.

Why it matters

After struggling to score consistently last season, Austin FC's ability to create chances and find the net will be crucial to their hopes of returning to the playoffs in 2026. This match showed progress in their attack, but also highlighted the need to shore up the defense to see out games.

The details

Austin FC took the lead through a header from Brendan Hines-Ike in the first half, and Myrto Uzuni doubled the advantage in the second half. However, defensive lapses allowed Minnesota United to equalize, first from a corner kick and then in the final minutes when Kelvin Yeboah was left unmarked to head home the tying goal.

  • The first Austin FC goal came in the 7th minute from a corner kick.
  • Myrto Uzuni scored Austin FC's second goal shortly after coming on as a substitute in the second half.
  • Minnesota United's first goal came in the first half from a defensive mistake on a corner kick.
  • Kelvin Yeboah scored the equalizer for Minnesota United in the 90th minute.

The players

Nico Estévez

The head coach of Austin FC.

Brendan Hines-Ike

An Austin FC defender who scored the team's first goal.

Myrto Uzuni

An Austin FC forward who scored the team's second goal.

Kelvin Yeboah

A Minnesota United forward who scored the equalizing goal in the 90th minute.

Brad Stuver

The Austin FC goalkeeper who was unable to prevent Minnesota United's late equalizer.

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What they’re saying

“I think he had a really good debut. I think he was brave. He was aggressive in the 1-v-1 situations, created a lot of good crosses and dangerous plays.”

— Nico Estévez, Austin FC Head Coach (statesman.com)

“I think that confused a little bit everyone on the field and they took advantage.”

— Nico Estévez, Austin FC Head Coach (statesman.com)

What’s next

Austin FC will look to shore up their defense ahead of their next match, while also hoping to get some key injured players back in the lineup.

The takeaway

Austin FC showed progress in their attacking play, but defensive mistakes ultimately cost them two points in their season opener. The team will need to find the right balance between attack and defense to build on this performance and return to the playoffs in 2026.