Austin FC II Edges Colorado Rapids II in Thrilling 3-2 Victory in MLS Next Pro Action

Austin, TX — Austin FC II secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Colorado Rapids II on July 6, 2026, in an entertaining MLS Next Pro encounter at a sold-out Parmer Field. The home side twice battled back from deficits before snatching all three points with a late winner, showcasing the resilience and attacking firepower that has made them a dangerous opponent in the Western Conference this season.

Match Overview

The match kicked off under clear skies with both teams eager to build momentum in the mid-summer campaign. Colorado Rapids II struck first, capitalizing on a defensive lapse in the 18th minute when forward Ethan Zubak slotted home from close range after a swift counterattack. Austin responded well, equalizing just before the half-hour mark through a well-worked set piece: midfielder Diego Fagúndez curled a free kick into the box, where center-back Kipp Keller rose highest to head past Rapids goalkeeper Abraham Rodriguez.

The second half saw Colorado regain the lead in the 52nd minute via a powerful strike from winger Darren Yapi, who cut inside from the left and unleashed a shot that deflected off an Austin defender and into the net. Unfazed, Austin FC II continued to press and equalized for the second time in the 68th minute. Substitute Jorge Álvarez latched onto a through ball from Alex Ring and calmly finished to make it 2-2.

Key Moments and Decisive Finish

The turning point came in the 83rd minute. Austin FC II earned a corner after a sustained period of pressure. The delivery from Fagúndez found the head of Kipp Keller, who powered his second header of the night past Rodriguez to complete his brace and send the home supporters into raptures. Colorado Rapids II pushed for an equalizer in stoppage time, but Austin's defense, marshaled by captain Aaron Wood, held firm to secure the victory.

• 18' – Ethan Zubak (COL) finishes a counterattack, 0-1.
• 28' – Kipp Keller (AUS) heads home from a set piece, 1-1.
• 52' – Darren Yapi (COL) scores with a deflected strike, 1-2.
• 68' – Jorge Álvarez (AUS) equalizes after a neat build-up, 2-2.
• 83' – Kipp Keller (AUS) nets his second, a powerful header from a corner, 3-2.

Standout Performers

Kipp Keller was the undisputed hero, scoring twice from set pieces and dominating aerial duels throughout. His brace highlighted Austin's set‑piece efficiency, a weapon that has become a hallmark of their game in MLS Next Pro. Midfielder Diego Fagúndez also impressed, providing precise deliveries on both Keller goals and orchestrating play from the middle of the park.

For Colorado Rapids II, Darren Yapi continued his strong form with a goal and constant menace on the flank, while goalkeeper Abraham Rodriguez made several key saves that kept his side in the match despite the defeat.

Impact on the Standings

The victory lifted Austin FC II into fourth place in the Western Conference of MLS Next Pro, strengthening their push for a playoff berth with just under two months remaining in the regular season. Colorado Rapids II, meanwhile, remained in eighth, three points outside the playoff zone, and will rue the defensive set‑piece lapses that cost them valuable points on the road.

Both teams are back in action next week: Austin travels to face LA Galaxy II, while Colorado hosts Real Monarchs at home.