News Summary
Austin FC’s forward Brandon Vazquez will miss the remainder of the MLS season due to a torn knee ligament sustained during a US Open Cup match. Despite scoring nine goals this season, his absence poses a significant challenge for the team. Austin FC has advanced to the US Open Cup semifinals but will need to find a suitable replacement for Vazquez as they look to maintain their momentum in upcoming fixtures. Meanwhile, injuries are impacting other teams in the league, highlighting the challenges faced during the season.
Austin, Texas
Austin FC has announced that their key forward, Brandon Vazquez, will miss the remainder of the Major League Soccer (MLS) season due to a torn knee ligament. Vazquez sustained the injury during a US Open Cup quarterfinal match against San Jose on a recent date, leaving the field in the 69th minute after requiring a stretcher. Prior to the injury, Vazquez had scored his ninth goal of the season, helping to level the game at 1-1.
Injury Impact and Team Response
The injury will sideline Vazquez for the rest of the MLS campaign. As a result, Austin FC plans to place him on its season-ending injury list and initiate a rehabilitation process. Despite his absence, the team advanced to the US Open Cup semifinals after prevailing in a penalty shootout following the quarterfinal loss.
Vazquez’s Role and Financial Details
Vazquez joined Austin FC on a four-year contract, costing the club a record $10 million. He is among the highest-paid players in the club’s history, earning an annual salary of approximately $3.2 million. This season, his contributions included five goals in 19 MLS matches, assisting in nearly a third of the team’s goals.
Team Outlook
Moving forward, coach Nico Estevez is expected to consider replacing Vazquez with players such as Myrto Uzuni in upcoming fixtures, including the next scheduled match against New England. The club remains focused on maintaining momentum despite the loss of their star striker.
St. Louis CITY SC and Player Injuries
Meanwhile, St. Louis CITY SC has declared that midfielder Rasmus Alm will be out for the rest of the 2024 season due to injuries related to osteitis pubis and other complications. Alm’s decision was made following consultations with medical specialists, and MLS regulations prohibit him from participating in any matches for the remainder of the season.
Inter Miami and Nashville SC Preview
Inter Miami is preparing for an upcoming match against Nashville SC. Notably, Lionel Messi has scored two braces in Inter Miami’s last four MLS games, boosting the team’s offensive output. Since May 31, Inter Miami has played only its second home game at Chase Stadium, indicating limited home matches for the club this season.
Nashville SC, on the other hand, is experiencing a strong winning streak, remaining undefeated in their last 15 matches with their most recent five wins consecutively. They currently sit in second place in the Eastern Conference with 41 points. Their offensive strength is highlighted by top scorer Sam Surridge, who has netted 16 goals this season. Nashville’s defender Jonathan Perez faces suspension due to a red card received in his previous game.
Head-to-Head and Match Details
The upcoming match between Inter Miami and Nashville SC is scheduled to kick off at 7:45 PM EST/4:45 PM PST. Historically, these teams have faced each other 14 times, with Inter Miami winning five, Nashville winning four, and five matches ending in a draw. Inter Miami’s defensive line has been affected by injuries, including defenders Ian Fray and Noah Allen, with Drake Callender nearing a return to the squad.
Summary
This week’s updates highlight significant injuries affecting MLS teams and upcoming match previews. Vazquez’s season-ending injury marks a considerable setback for Austin FC’s attacking options. Meanwhile, Nashville SC continues to boast an impressive unbeaten run, bolstered by their high-scoring threat, Surridge. Inter Miami aims to capitalize on Messi’s recent goal-scoring form as they prepare for a crucial home game. The coming fixtures will be pivotal for the teams seeking to improve their standings as the season progresses.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Statesman: Brandon Vazquez Injury Report
- St. Louis CITY SC: Rasmus Alm Injury Announcement
- Athlon Sports: Inter Miami vs Nashville Match Preview
- Miami Herald: Inter Miami Update
- Google Search: MLS Injuries Updates
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
