Christian Ramirez scores game-winner for Austin FC hours after joining club

The 34-year-old forward had a whirlwind 11 days, going from starting a CONCACAF Champions Cup game for the LA Galaxy to being cut, then signing with Austin FC and scoring the decisive goal on Sunday.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Christian Ramirez, a 34-year-old forward, scored the game-winning goal for Austin FC in the 82nd minute of their 1-0 victory over D.C. United on Sunday, just hours after joining the club. Ramirez had a whirlwind 11 days, going from starting a CONCACAF Champions Cup game for the LA Galaxy on February 19 to being cut by the club two days later, before signing with Austin FC on Friday and making an immediate impact in his debut.

Why it matters

Ramirez's goal-scoring heroics in his Austin FC debut showcase the veteran forward's ability to quickly adapt to a new team and make an immediate impact, despite the personal upheaval of being released by the Galaxy and having to relocate his family to Texas. His experience and leadership will be valuable assets for Austin FC as they look to build on this win and make a push for the MLS playoffs.

The details

Ramirez, who turns 35 in April, entered the match in the second half and scored the game-winning goal in the 82nd minute, finishing a header off a deflection. He had just 48 hours to get acclimated to his new teammates and learn the system after signing with Austin FC on Friday. Despite the short turnaround, Ramirez was able to make an immediate impact, showcasing his goal-scoring ability and veteran savvy.

  • Ramirez started a CONCACAF Champions Cup game for the LA Galaxy on February 19.
  • Ramirez was cut by the Galaxy two days later on February 21.
  • Ramirez signed with Austin FC on Friday, February 28.
  • Ramirez made his Austin FC debut and scored the game-winning goal on Sunday, March 2.

The players

Christian Ramirez

A 34-year-old forward who recently signed with Austin FC after being cut by the LA Galaxy. Ramirez has over 13 years of MLS experience and has played for five different clubs.

Nico Estévez

The head coach of Austin FC, who previously coached Ramirez with the U.S. men's national team in 2019.

Rodolfo Borrell

The sporting director of Austin FC, who was familiar with Ramirez and helped facilitate the quick signing after injuries to key players.

Brad Stuver

The goalkeeper for Austin FC, who praised Ramirez's ability to quickly adapt and make an impact in his debut.

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What they’re saying

“It's been a roller coaster. To do a press conference in Panama (Feb. 18), play the next day, take a seven-hour flight, take a nap and then wake up to the news (of being released), it sort of shell shocks you.”

— Christian Ramirez (statesman.com)

“Christian has a very good understanding of how the game is played … and he's won trophies. He can connect with the American players and the Hispanic players because he speaks (both English and Spanish). You have to give (Borrell) a lot of credit for making the move quickly, and you see what kind of impact he can make.”

— Nico Estévez, Austin FC head coach (statesman.com)

“It's difficult. He's learning names. He's learning the system. He's learning everything on the fly, and to be able to land three days ago and wrap his head around the game plan (is impressive). … But he's a player who always finds himself in the right place at the right time.”

— Brad Stuver, Austin FC goalkeeper (statesman.com)

What’s next

Austin FC will look to build on this win and Ramirez's strong debut as they continue their MLS season. The team does not have another road match on the West Coast until May, giving Ramirez time to further integrate with his new teammates and family.

The takeaway

Ramirez's ability to quickly adapt to a new team and make an immediate impact, despite the personal upheaval of being released by the Galaxy, showcases his veteran leadership and goal-scoring prowess. His addition will be a valuable asset for Austin FC as they push for the playoffs in the competitive MLS Western Conference.