Austin FC is on the brink of elimination after a 2-1 loss to LAFC in Game 1.

What happened?

The team now faces a must-win situation in Game 2. Brad Stuver made multiple impressive saves, and Owen Wolff assisted Jon Gallagher's goal.

Why it matters for Austin FC

A win would force a Game 3 and keep their playoff hopes alive. The Verde & Black are seeking their second-ever Western Conference Semifinal trip.

What comes next?

The game will be played on Sunday, Nov. 2, at 8:45 pm ET/5:45 pm PT at Q2 Stadium. | Stat | Value | | --- | --- | | Regular season points | 47 | | Western Conference position | No. 6 | Austin FC became the first team to prevent Son Heung-Min and Denis Bouanga from recording a goal contribution when playing together. Head coach Nico Estévez's side hopes to use that as a springboard to force a Game 3. No extra time is played if a Round One match is tied after regulation time; instead, a penalty kick shootout determines the winner. The team is boosted by their home fans and seeks to use that energy to their advantage.

Key players

Son Heung-Min and Denis Bouanga may not have gotten on the scoresheet, but they created the winning goal on a classic LAFC counterattack. Nathan Ordaz was overjoyed to see he stayed onside for the game-winner after changing the match as a second-half substitute. Ryan Hollingshead forced an own goal in the 20th minute and is the all-time leader for postseason goals by a defender in MLS. The game will be streamed on MLS Season Pass, Apple TV, FS1, and FOX Deportes. Austin FC is looking to bounce back from their Game 1 loss and make a push for the Western Conference Semifinals.