A dramatic encounter at the Parmer Field saw Austin FC II suffer a narrow 3-2 defeat at the hands of Minnesota United B in a lively MLS Next Pro clash on the morning of July 13, 2026. Despite a spirited fightback from the hosts, the Loons' second string held firm to claim all three points on the road, adding another entertaining chapter to the burgeoning rivalry between these two development sides.

Match Overview

The game began at a frantic pace, with both teams eager to impose themselves in the early stages. Minnesota United B drew first blood in the 19th minute when a well-worked move down the left flank ended with a low cross that was turned home by forward Jose Perez. Austin FC II responded well and equalised just before the half-hour mark through a composed finish from Ethan Bryant, who latched onto a through ball from midfield.

The second half saw the visitors regain control. Sam Gbadebo restored Minnesota's lead with a powerful header from a corner in the 53rd minute, and substitute Lucas Hernandez added a third in the 71st minute with a clinical strike from the edge of the box. Austin pulled one back in the 84th minute when Miguel Rios nodded home from a set piece, but the home side could not find an equaliser in the closing stages, leaving the Loons to celebrate a hard-fought victory.

Key Moments

• 19' – Jose Perez (MIN B) opens the scoring with a close-range finish.
• 27' – Ethan Bryant (ATX II) levels the match with a calm one-on-one finish.
• 53' – Sam Gbadebo (MIN B) heads home from a corner to restore the lead.
• 71' – Lucas Hernandez (MIN B) doubles the advantage with a crisp shot.
• 84' – Miguel Rios (ATX II) scores from a header to set up a tense finish.

Standout Performances

Minnesota United B's Sam Gbadebo was a commanding presence at both ends of the pitch, not only scoring but also marshalling a defence that absorbed considerable pressure in the final ten minutes. For Austin FC II, Ethan Bryant continued his impressive season with a well-taken goal and intelligent movement that troubled the visitors' backline throughout. Goalkeeper Mateo Silva made several crucial saves for the Loons in the dying moments to preserve the lead.

Season Context

The result keeps Minnesota United B in the hunt for a playoff spot in the Western Conference, while Austin FC II remain mid-table but have shown encouraging signs of growth under their coaching staff. Both teams continue to prioritise player development, and this match provided valuable minutes for several young prospects on either side. The Loons will take confidence from their resilience on the road, while Austin will look to tighten their defensive organisation in future fixtures.