Christian Ramírez Scores Late Winner as Austin FC Shuts Out D.C. United

Veteran striker nets decisive goal in 82nd minute to secure 1-0 victory for Austin FC

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Christian Ramírez scored the game-winning goal in the 82nd minute to lift Austin FC to a 1-0 victory over D.C. United in their MLS matchup on Sunday. Ramírez capitalized on a rebound after a shot by teammate Besard Sabovic was deflected, heading the ball into the net to secure the win for Austin. Goalkeeper Brad Stuver made two crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet for the home team.

Why it matters

This victory marks a promising start to the season for Austin FC, who were able to control possession and create scoring chances against a tough D.C. United squad. The addition of veteran striker Christian Ramírez, who joined the team just two days prior, provided an immediate impact with the game-winning goal.

The details

Austin FC dominated possession with 56% of the ball and outshot D.C. United 16-8, including 9 shots on target compared to their opponent's 2. Goalkeeper Sean Johnson made 8 saves for D.C. United, but it was not enough to prevent the shutout loss. This was Ramírez's 56th career MLS goal, and his first since joining Austin FC off waivers from the LA Galaxy.

  • The game was played on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
  • Christian Ramírez scored the game-winning goal in the 82nd minute.

The players

Christian Ramírez

A 34-year-old striker who joined Austin FC off waivers from the LA Galaxy just two days prior to the game. He scored the decisive goal in the 82nd minute to secure the 1-0 win for Austin.

Brad Stuver

The goalkeeper for Austin FC, who made two crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet for his team.

Sean Johnson

The goalkeeper for D.C. United, who made 8 saves but was unable to prevent the 1-0 loss for his team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Austin FC will look to build on this strong start to the season as they continue their MLS campaign against other competitive opponents.

The takeaway

This victory highlights the immediate impact that veteran striker Christian Ramírez can have for Austin FC, as well as the team's ability to control possession and create scoring chances against a tough opponent. Austin FC's strong defensive performance and Ramírez's game-winning goal provide a promising start to their MLS season.