AUSTIN, Texas — In 2021, scoring goals was a weak point for Austin FC for significant portions of the inaugural season.
Through two matches in 2022, that narrative has changed ... so far. Austin FC defeated Inter Miami CF 5-1 on Sunday, notching the club's second win this season and second straight match with five goals. The Verde's 10 goals through two matches is a MLS record.
Austin FC got on the board first in the 22nd minute after designated player and midfielder Sebastian Driussi volleyed home a cross from Diego Fagundez. ESPN broadcaster Taylor Twellman called Driussi one of the five most talented players in the MLS today. Driussi finished the match with two goals after scoring in the 51st minute as well.
Julio Cascante scored the second goal of the match for Austin FC in the 26th minute with a glancing header off a cross into the box from Zan Kolmanic.
Inter Miami got on the scoresheet through Leo Campana two minutes after Driussi scored the third Austin FC goal.
PHOTOS: Austin FC hosts Inter Miami for 2nd MLS match of 2022
Verde newcomer Ethan Finlay tallied the other two goals, scoring one in the 64th minute and the other in the 90th minute.
Here's a look at all five goals:
22'
26'
51'
64'
90'
Austin FC won the possession battle, 59% to 41%. Inter Miami CF outshot Austin FC, however, 13 to 8. Both clubs had six shots on goal. Fagundez also recorded his 300th cap in the MLS, becoming the youngest player to do so (27 years, 20 days).
Prior to the match, Austin FC fans unveiled another tifo. The tifo displayed before the match was a rendition of the "Greetings from Austin" mural, featuring multiple Austin FC players layered into the design and background. It incorporated key moments from the inaugural season, such as Diego Fagundez celebrating the first goal in Austin FC history, Jon Gallaher celebrating the first-ever Austin FC goal at Q2 Stadium and more.
Austin FC will play its first away match and third match overall of the 2022 Major League Soccer regular season against the Portland Timbers on Saturday, March 12, at 9 p.m.
For the latest Austin FC news, visit kvue.com/austinfc. To get the latest Austin FC news straight to your phone, text "SOCCER" to 512-459-9442.
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