Kobe Franklin scores first career goal in Toronto's 3-3 draw with Austin

Defender's late strike helps TFC rally for point against visiting Austin FC

Apr. 18, 2026 at 11:27pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the action and energy of a soccer match, with players and the ball represented through sharp, overlapping shapes in a vibrant color palette.Kobe Franklin's late equalizer salvages a point for Toronto FC in a thrilling draw with Austin FC.Austin Today

Defender Kobe Franklin scored his first career goal in the 88th minute to help Toronto FC rally for a 3-3 draw against Austin FC on Saturday. The late equalizer allowed TFC to salvage a point at home after falling behind 3-1 earlier in the match.

Why it matters

Franklin's first career goal was a crucial contribution to the comeback effort, as Toronto continues to fight for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The draw keeps both teams in the middle of the MLS table, with Austin and Toronto looking to build momentum heading into the second half of the season.

The details

After Austin took a 3-1 lead in the 70th minute, Toronto pressed for an equalizer and were rewarded when Franklin found the back of the net in the final minutes. The 23-year-old defender, who was making his 32nd career MLS appearance, scored the tying goal to cap off TFC's fightback.

  • The match was played on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
  • Kobe Franklin scored the equalizing goal in the 88th minute.

The players

Kobe Franklin

A 23-year-old defender for Toronto FC who scored his first career MLS goal in the match.

Toronto FC

The home team that rallied from a 3-1 deficit to earn a 3-3 draw against Austin FC.

Austin FC

The visiting team that took a 3-1 lead but was unable to hold on for the victory.

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What they’re saying

“I'm so proud of the team for never giving up. Kobe's goal was a huge moment for him and for us to get a point out of this match.”

— Bob Bradley, Toronto FC Head Coach

What’s next

Toronto FC will look to build on this comeback result when they host the New England Revolution next weekend. Austin FC will try to regroup at home against the LA Galaxy in their next match.

The takeaway

Kobe Franklin's first career goal proved crucial in earning Toronto FC an important point against a tough Austin FC side. The late equalizer demonstrated TFC's resilience and ability to fight back, a quality that could serve them well as they push for a playoff spot in the crowded Eastern Conference.