Austin FC vs. Minnesota United FC Preview

Austin, TEXAS - Austin FC is gearing up to kick off the 2024 Major League Soccer season against Minnesota United FC this Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at Q2 Stadium.

Reflecting on the team's preparation, head coach Josh Wolff expressed optimism during his media address on Wednesday afternoon, following the conclusion of preseason just four days prior. "I like what we’ve seen so far," remarked Wolff.

Under the leadership of Sporting Director Rodolfo Borrell, Austin made some new signings during the off-season to add depth that includes Chilean striker Diego Rubio from free agency, Colombian winger Jáder Obrian acquired in the Re-Entry Draft, Brazilian left back Guilherme Biro, defender Brendan Hines-Ike, and goalkeeper Stefan Cleveland, both from the United States.

Several names that fans need to familiarize themselves with are CJ Fodrey, Valentin Noël, Bryant a.k.a “Jimmy” Farkarlun, and Micah Burton, all of whom have gained minutes and impressed some of the fan base during preseason.

Speaking specifically about the upcoming match against Minnesota, Wolff emphasized the challenges posed by their opponent. "It’s Minnesota, they are a very fast, physical team. Extremely good at set pieces, incredible speed throughout the field. For us, we need to be organized and aware of what they want to do with the ball and how they want to hurt us.”

Austin FC goalkeeper Brad Stuver who’s been with the club since 2021 spoke openly about the defensive struggles, “when we look at the last three years we’ve given up a lot of goals. Even in the 2022 season, we gave up 48. I think… 56 or 58 in the first season, and 55 I think last year so it’s definitely been a key emphasis for us on giving up fewer goals”.A big question still stands though, on center back veteran Julio Cascante who Wolff counts as questionable for the first game. “He trained by himself today” is never a good sign.

Minnesota, on the other hand, is facing their own challenges that could fall in Austin’s favor. This, after interim coach Sean McAuley quit 7 weeks before the MLS opener. Cameron Knowles, formerly the MNUFC2 head coach, stands as the team’s interim head coach for now.

The pressure is always on for leaders in this league but Josh Wolff, who’s only 46-years-old, has been fortunate enough to have the support of the organization as he enters his fourth MLS campaign as head coach.

“I don’t. Never have given much credence or time or thought to any of the stuff on the outside," Wolff stated in response to predictions from league reporters that placed his club towards the bottom of the table.

But for success, his players must perform on the pitch, and every team needs a captain. Wolff recognizes Sebastian, the leading goal scorer and wearer of the armband, as his go-to player. "Sebastian is an incredible player; I still say he is, if not, [he’s] the best player in the league. He’s not a one-man show... The more success our team achieves, the more recognition he and other players will receive."

The anticipation is palpable as Austin FC and Minnesota United FC gear up for their season opener, promising an exhilarating start to the 2024 MLS season. Games will Only available for streaming on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV.