By Franco Domínguez
Club America and Austin FC face off in Matchday 3 of Leagues Cup 2026 on Thursday at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas. Both teams can secure their place in the Quarterfinals with a win, while a draw or loss would leave their qualification hopes dependent on other results.
HEAD-TO-HEAD
- 1st meeting all-time between the two sides
- Record at Leagues Cup: América (8-4), Austin (4-3)
LAST FIVE GAMES
- América:
- 4 Wins, 1 Draw, 0 Losses
- Austin:
- 3 Wins, 0 Draws, 2 Losses
MAIN STORYLINES
- Both teams can advance to the next phase of the Leagues Cup with a win. In the event of a draw or a loss, they will depend on a combination of results
- América is on a 5-match unbeaten streak to start their season.
- América has reached the Leagues Cup knockout rounds in each of its previous tournament appearances but is still seeking its first trip to the semifinals.
- Austin enters this matchup as one of only two teams yet to allow a goal this tournament (FC Dallas is the other team).
- Austin has won each of its last four Leagues Cup matches against LIGA MX opposition, dating back to 2024 victories over Pumas and Monterrey and continuing with wins over Tijuana and Puebla this year.
KEY FACTORS
- América:
- Brian Rodríguez has been phenomenal as of late with a goal in 3 straight game. He's been their most dangerous player on the field.
- 22-year-old Isaías Violante has scored in back-to-back games and has three goals in five games since the start of the Apertura.
- Head Coach Guillermo Almada remains unbeaten since taking charge of América.
- Austin:
- Myrto Uzuni scored a hat trick in their win over Puebla, his first hat trick since joining the team in March 2025.
- Austin FC’s Brad Stuver will look to earn his third consecutive shutout in Leagues Cup and has yet to concede a goal in the 2026 edition.
- Brandon Vázquez has Liga MX experience, formerly playing for Tijuana and Monterrey
WHAT TO EXPECT?
Two undefeated teams meet in a high-stakes matchup as Club América faces Austin FC, which could be a preview of the Knockout Phase if both teams advance.
Club América will look to make a statement and finish at the top of the Liga MX group in the Phase One standings.
Austin FC will also seek to finish undefeated after winning its two opening encounters. Even though Austin FC is playing in its home stadium, Las Águilas are one of the most popular teams in North America and will have noticeable support in the stands, which should make for a raucous atmosphere.
Club América enters as the Polymarket favorite at 44%, but Austin remains within striking distance at 29% ahead of their Leagues Cup showdown.
