Austin FC hits the road this Saturday for a critical match in its hunt for the 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs. The Verde & Black will take on Colorado Rapids at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, with kickoff set for 8:30 p.m. CT/7:30 p.m. MT.
Tune-In
Fans can watch the match in English or Spanish for free in over 100 countries with MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
- Stream: Click here to watch the match, or access it through any device compatible with the Apple TV app.
- Radio: The match will be broadcast live locally in English on iHeart Radio’s Alt 97.5, and in Spanish on Univision’s TUDN Radio Austin (104.3-HD2, KLQB-FM).
Austin FC Outlook
Austin earned draws in both of its matches last week, away vs. New York Red Bulls and at home to LA Galaxy. The team currently sits five points below the Western Conference playoff line, making Saturday’s match a golden opportunity to move within striking distance ahead of a pair of home matches at Q2 Stadium on October 4 and 7.
Argentine Designated Player Emiliano Rigoni has hit a strong patch of form for the Verde & Black, recording two goals and two assists in his last four outings. The team as a whole has not been held scoreless in any of its last five matches, and has failed to score in only one game since May 24. Other strong performers in Sunday’s duel with the Galaxy included Jon Gallagher (two assists), Alex Ring (one goal, one assist), and Brad Stuver (eight saves).
Dick’s Sporting Goods Park has traditionally been a happy hunting ground for Austin. The team recorded away wins vs. the Rapids in each of its first two seasons, including the first victory in Club history on April 24, 2021.
Colorado Rapids Outlook
The Rapids have already been eliminated from playoff contention but are still fighting for each result, as evidenced by their 2-1 home win over New England Revolution on September 16. 22-year-old Cole Bassett has been a bright spot in a tough season in Colorado, leading the team with five goals and tacking on an assist in 18 starts.
Diego Rubio has been a consistent goal-scoring threat since joining MLS in 2016, recording totals of 53 goals and 34 assists. The Rapids faced the challenge of a midweek home match against Vancouver Whitecaps, and both Bassett and Rubio were on the scoresheet as the team earned a 2-2 draw.
For Colorado, the remaining few matches of the 2023 campaign are a chance for players to prove themselves as the organization looks ahead to 2024, and the Verde & Black won’t travel to the Centennial State expecting to face an unmotivated opponent.
