AUSTIN, Texas — Austin FC kicked off its first international friendly on Tuesday, July 13, against seven-time Liga MX Champions and 2020 CONCACAF Champions League winner Club Tigres UANL with a 3-1 loss.
With several players out because of injuries or international competition, including star striker Andre Pierre Gignac, Austin FC started just five players on Tuesday night.
The Mexican club took the lead after a 24th-minute header score from Diego Reyes following a corner kick.
But Verde fans were hopeful as things heated up in the second half. Reserve Rodney Redes became the star of the night when he shot from outside the box in the 63rd minute to tie the match at 1-1.
It didn't take long though for Tigres to regain the lead with two goals from Nico Lopez, ending the Verdes' hopes for victory.
Officials announced the matchup in mid-June, providing Verde fans another opportunity to see the team compete against club's from around the world.
“We are proud to offer Austin FC’s fans this marquee event as our first international friendly,” said Austin FC Sporting Director Claudio Reyna. “Tigres is a successful Liga MX Club that will bring a notable roster for their preseason in the U.S. It will be a great experience for fans and for our players. We look forward to hosting Tigres at Q2 Stadium.”
Club Tigres features a prominent attacking lineup led by French striker and all-time Club top scorer André-Pierre Gignac, French midfielder and FIFA 2018 World Cup winner Florian Thauvin, Uruguayan striker Nicolás López and Paraguayan forward Carlos González. Tigres’ squad also includes defenders Luis Rodríguez and Carlos Salcedo, who were recently called up to the Mexico National Team for the 2021 CONCACAF Nations League.
The friendly comes on the heels of Austin's first home win, a 4-1 result against the Portland Timbers, followed by the first home loss of the season 2-0 against LAFC.
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