Austin FC Stats Reveal Team Performance and Player Achievements
Key Metrics Reveal Team's Performance Trends
Austin FC, the Major League Soccer club based in Texas' capital city, has made waves since joining the league in 2021. As the team continues to build its legacy, fans and analysts alike closely monitor their performance through various statistical measures.
Austin FC's goal difference of -9 ranks them 21st in the MLS for the 2024 season, highlighting areas for improvement as they strive to climb the league standings. This metric, along with others such as goals scored, passing accuracy, and possession percentages, provides valuable insights into the team's strengths and weaknesses.
For supporters eager to track Austin FC's progress, numerous resources offer comprehensive statistical breakdowns. These include official MLS platforms, sports news outlets, and specialized soccer statistics websites. By examining these figures, fans can gain a deeper understanding of their team's performance and anticipate future matchups with greater insight.
Austin FC Overview
Austin FC competes in Major League Soccer (MLS), the top-tier professional soccer league in the United States. The club entered MLS as an expansion team in 2021, becoming the first major professional sports franchise in Austin, Texas.
Austin FC plays its home matches at Q2 Stadium, a soccer-specific venue with a capacity of 20,738 fans. The team's colors are bright verde (green) and black, reflecting the city's vibrant culture and natural beauty.
In terms of performance, Austin FC has shown steady growth since its inaugural season. The club's best finish to date came in 2022 when they reached the Western Conference Finals.
Key stats for Austin FC in the current MLS season:
Goals scored: 31
Goals conceded: 40
Goal difference: -9
League position: 21st overall
Austin FC participates in various competitions, including:
• MLS regular season • U.S. Open Cup • Leagues Cup
The team's roster features a mix of domestic and international talent, with players representing countries such as Argentina, Colombia, and Finland. Austin FC's style of play emphasizes possession-based soccer and high-pressing tactics.
Team Performance Analysis
Austin FC has shown mixed results since joining Major League Soccer in 2021. The team's stats reflect both strengths and areas for improvement across key performance metrics.
Overall Results Summary
As of September 16, 2024, Austin FC's all-time MLS record stands at 43 wins, 28 draws, and 56 losses. This gives them a win percentage of 33.9% over their first four seasons in the league.
The team has played a total of 127 matches in MLS competition. Their performance has fluctuated, with stronger showings in some seasons compared to others.
Austin FC's points per match (PPM) average sits at 1.23, indicating room for growth to compete with the league's top teams consistently.
Goals and Offensive Stats
Austin FC has demonstrated a respectable attacking output since entering the league. The team has scored an average of 1.45 goals per game across all seasons.
Key offensive stats:
Total goals scored: 184
Assists: 136
Shots on target per match: 4.3
The team's goal difference currently stands at -28, highlighting the need for improved defensive performances to complement their attacking prowess.
Defensive and Disciplinary Records
Defensively, Austin FC has faced challenges in maintaining consistent form. The team has conceded an average of 1.67 goals per game since their inaugural season.
Disciplinary record:
Yellow cards: 187
Red cards: 9
These numbers suggest a relatively controlled approach to tackling and challenges, with room for improvement in defensive organization to reduce goals conceded.
Goalkeeping and Clean Sheets
Austin FC's goalkeepers have played a crucial role in the team's performances. The club has managed to keep 31 clean sheets in their 127 MLS matches, equating to a clean sheet percentage of 24.4%.
Goalkeeping stats:
Save percentage: 68.2%
Goals against per 90 minutes: 1.67
Penalty kicks faced: 18
Penalty kicks saved: 4
These figures indicate solid goalkeeping performances, with potential for improvement to boost the team's overall defensive record.
Player Statistics and Profiles
Austin FC's roster boasts a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents. The team's performance relies on individual contributions across various positions, from goal-scoring forwards to sturdy defenders and reliable goalkeepers.
Key Players Overview
Jon Gallagher has been a versatile attacking threat for Austin FC. His ability to play multiple positions in the front line gives the team tactical flexibility. Sebastián Driussi stands out as the team's primary playmaker, consistently creating chances and contributing to goals.
Alexander Ring anchors the midfield with his leadership and defensive prowess. His experience helps maintain team shape and control the tempo of matches. Julio Cascante has been a mainstay in the backline, using his physicality and positioning to thwart opposition attacks.
Owen Wolff, a young homegrown talent, has shown promise in midfield roles. His technical skills and vision hint at a bright future for both club and player.
Individual Goals and Assists
Sebastián Driussi leads Austin FC's goal-scoring charts. His clinical finishing and ability to find space in tight areas make him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Jon Gallagher has also chipped in with crucial goals, often arriving late in the box to finish off team moves.
In terms of assists, Driussi again tops the list. His vision and passing range create numerous chances for teammates. Alexander Ring contributes to the assist tally with his set-piece deliveries and long-range passes from deeper positions.
Daniel Pereira has shown growth in his attacking contributions, providing key passes that lead to goals.
Defensive Contributions
Julio Cascante leads the team in clearances and aerial duels won. His partnership with fellow center-backs has been crucial in maintaining defensive stability. Alexander Ring tops the charts for tackles and interceptions, showcasing his importance in breaking up opposition play.
Owen Wolff has impressed with his work rate, often leading the press from midfield positions. His ability to win back possession high up the pitch creates counter-attacking opportunities for the team.
Daniel Pereira's defensive improvements have been notable, with increased tackle success rates and positional awareness.
Goalkeepers' Performances
Brad Stuver has been Austin FC's first-choice goalkeeper. His shot-stopping abilities have been crucial in several matches, with impressive save percentages. Stuver's distribution skills also contribute to the team's build-up play from the back.
His command of the penalty area, particularly during set-pieces, has helped organize the defense effectively. Stuver's quick reflexes have resulted in numerous point-blank saves, directly contributing to valuable points for the team throughout the season.
Advanced Team Analytics
Austin FC's performance can be analyzed through sophisticated metrics that provide deeper insights into their playing style and effectiveness. These advanced statistics offer a nuanced understanding of the team's strengths and areas for improvement.
Expected Goals (xG) and Expected Assisted Goals (xA)
Expected Goals (xG) measures the quality of scoring chances created by Austin FC. This metric considers factors like shot location, angle, and defensive pressure. In the 2024 season, Austin FC's xG stands at 1.42 per game, indicating they create high-quality chances consistently.
Expected Assisted Goals (xA) evaluates the quality of passes leading to shot attempts. Austin FC's midfielders have excelled in this area, with a team xA of 0.98 per match. This suggests their playmakers are adept at creating opportunities for teammates.
The combination of xG and xA provides a comprehensive view of Austin FC's attacking prowess. It highlights their ability to not only finish chances but also create them effectively.
Non-Penalty Goals and xG
Non-Penalty Goals (NPG) exclude penalties to focus on open-play and set-piece scoring. Austin FC has netted 28 NPG this season, slightly outperforming their xG of 25.6. This positive differential of 2.4 goals indicates above-average finishing ability.
The team's NPG to xG ratio of 1.09 suggests they are converting chances at a rate higher than expected. Key contributors to this efficiency include:
Forward A: 9 NPG (7.8 xG)
Midfielder B: 6 NPG (5.2 xG)
Winger C: 5 NPG (4.9 xG)
This data reveals Austin FC's clinical finishing and potential for sustained offensive output.
Progressive Passing and Carrying
Progressive actions move the ball towards the opponent's goal, creating attacking opportunities. Austin FC's progressive passing stats show an average of 42.3 progressive passes per 90 minutes, with a completion rate of 76%.
Key progressive passers for the team include:
Midfielder D: 5.7 progressive passes per 90
Defender E: 4.9 progressive passes per 90
Progressive carries, where players advance the ball with their feet, complement passing. Austin FC averages 31.8 progressive carries per match, with standout performers being:
Winger F: 6.2 progressive carries per 90
Midfielder G: 5.8 progressive carries per 90
These stats highlight Austin FC's ability to advance the ball effectively, maintaining possession and creating opportunities in dangerous areas.
Season Highlights and Key Matches
Austin FC's 2024 season featured thrilling victories, hard-fought draws, and notable matchups against both conference rivals and interconference opponents. The team's performance showcased their growth and competitiveness in the league.
Memorable Victories
Austin FC secured several impressive wins throughout the season. A standout match came against LAFC, where the Verde and Black clinched a 3-1 victory at Q2 Stadium. The team's attacking prowess was on full display, with goals from their star striker and midfield maestro.
Another significant win occurred on the road against the LA Galaxy. Austin FC demonstrated their resilience, coming from behind to secure a 2-1 victory. This match highlighted the team's improved away form compared to previous seasons.
Notable Draws and Losses
The 2024 campaign saw Austin FC involved in several nail-biting encounters that ended in draws or narrow losses. A particularly intense fixture was the 2-2 draw against Nashville SC. The homestanding Verde showed great character, twice equalizing to salvage a point.
A heartbreaking loss came against Portland Timbers in a closely contested match. Despite dominating possession, Austin FC fell to a late goal, losing 1-0. This match emphasized the fine margins in MLS competition.
Interconference Match Highlights
Austin FC's interconference matches provided some of the season's most exciting moments. A thrilling encounter with Charlotte FC ended in a 3-3 draw, showcasing the offensive capabilities of both teams. The match featured end-to-end action and a last-minute equalizer.
The team's visit to Seattle Sounders resulted in a hard-fought 1-0 victory, marking a significant milestone in Austin FC's development. This win against a perennial MLS Cup contender demonstrated the team's ability to compete with the league's best.
A tough away fixture against Sporting KC saw Austin FC secure a valuable point in a goalless draw. The match highlighted the team's defensive improvements and tactical flexibility in challenging environments.
Statistical Comparisons
Austin FC's performance can be evaluated through various statistical metrics. These comparisons provide insights into the team's standings, individual player contributions, and how they measure up against other MLS clubs.
MLS Rankings and Standings
Austin FC has shown steady improvement since their inaugural 2021 season. As of September 2024, the club's all-time MLS record stands at 43 wins, 28 draws, and 56 losses. This places them in the middle of the pack among MLS teams.
In their debut season, Austin FC finished 24th in the league with 31 points. The team's performance has improved significantly since then. Their current position in the standings reflects a more competitive edge.
Austin FC's goal differential has also seen positive changes. This metric is crucial in determining tiebreakers and overall team effectiveness.
Player Comparisons Within the Team
Austin FC's roster boasts a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talents. The team's top scorer has consistently contributed double-digit goals each season.
Key midfielders have shown impressive assist numbers, creating scoring opportunities for their teammates. The goalkeeper's save percentage ranks among the top half of MLS keepers.
Defensive players' statistics, including interceptions and successful tackles, demonstrate the team's solid backline performance.
Comparison With Other MLS Teams
When compared to other MLS teams, Austin FC holds its own in several categories. Their home record at Q2 Stadium is particularly strong, rivaling that of established clubs like Atlanta United and Orlando City.
Austin FC's possession statistics are comparable to top-tier teams like New York Red Bulls and Toronto FC. Their passing accuracy consistently ranks in the upper half of the league.
In terms of goals scored, Austin FC outperforms some long-standing MLS clubs like D.C. United and FC Cincinnati. However, they still trail behind offensive powerhouses such as Miami CF in this category.
The team's defensive record shows improvement each season, with fewer goals conceded compared to their inaugural year. This trend puts them on par with mid-table teams in terms of defensive solidity.
Match Analysis and Strategy
Austin FC's approach to matches involves tactical flexibility, strategic substitutions, and set-piece prowess. The team's game plan adapts to opponents while leveraging player strengths and exploiting weaknesses.
Tactical Breakdown of Matches
Austin FC typically employs a 4-2-3-1 formation, prioritizing possession and quick counterattacks. The fullbacks provide width, allowing wingers to cut inside and create chances. The lone striker acts as a focal point for buildup play.
In defensive phases, Austin transitions to a compact 4-4-2, pressing high up the pitch to disrupt opponents' build-up. This aggressive style often forces turnovers in dangerous areas.
Against stronger teams, Austin may adopt a more conservative 5-3-2 formation, focusing on defensive solidity and quick transitions. This tactical versatility has proven crucial in adapting to different opponents and game situations.
Substitutions and Squad Rotation
Austin FC's coaching staff utilizes substitutions strategically to maintain team energy and adapt tactics. Late-game substitutions often introduce fresh attacking players to exploit tired defenses.
Squad rotation is key for managing player fatigue during congested fixture periods. The team's depth allows for seamless transitions between starting lineups without significant drops in performance.
Key players are often rested for less crucial matches, ensuring peak fitness for important games. This rotation policy has helped Austin maintain consistency throughout the season and reduce injury risks.
Set Pieces and Match Events
Set pieces are a crucial aspect of Austin FC's match strategy. The team employs a mix of rehearsed routines and improvised plays to create scoring opportunities from corners and free kicks.
On defensive set pieces, Austin uses a combination of zonal and man-marking systems. Tall, strong defenders are positioned strategically to deal with aerial threats.
Austin's ability to capitalize on match events like red cards or injuries to opponents has been notable. The coaching staff quickly adjusts tactics to exploit numerical advantages or target weakened areas of the opposition.
Upcoming Fixtures and Projections
Austin FC faces a packed schedule in the coming weeks. Their next match is against Toronto FC on September 19, 2024. This away game will test the team's road performance.
Following that, Austin FC will travel to Los Angeles to take on LAFC on September 22. LAFC has been a strong competitor in recent seasons, making this a challenging fixture.
The team then returns home for two consecutive matches. They'll host Houston Dynamo on September 29 and Real Salt Lake on October 3. Home games often provide an advantage, potentially boosting Austin FC's performance.
October brings more travel as Austin FC visits Portland Timbers on October 6. They'll round out this stretch with an away game against LA Galaxy on October 10.
Based on recent form and historical data, analysts project Austin FC to secure 7-9 points from these six matches. Home games are expected to yield better results.
Key factors for success include:
Maintaining defensive solidity
Capitalizing on scoring opportunities
Managing player fatigue during this busy period
Austin FC's performance in these fixtures could significantly impact their standings and playoff prospects for the 2024 season.
Fan Engagement and Community
Austin FC prioritizes fan engagement and community involvement. The club's nonprofit arm, 4ATX Foundation, leverages soccer's influence to enhance social, emotional, and physical well-being in Austin.
Programs organized by 4ATX Foundation encourage active participation in soccer. They create safe spaces for families to connect and engage in physical activities within their neighborhoods.
The club has partnered with Socios.com to enhance fan loyalty. This multi-year agreement aims to provide innovative experiences and rewards for supporters using next-generation technology.
Austin FC's home venue, Q2 Stadium, serves as a hub for fan gatherings. Its modern design and amenities contribute to an enjoyable matchday experience for attendees.
The team's official website offers various resources for fans. These include the latest news, match highlights, and roster information, keeping supporters connected to the club.
Austin FC values privacy and adheres to cookie policies on its digital platforms. This ensures a secure online experience for fans interacting with the club's content and services.