Brandon Vázquez: Austin FC’s Rising Star Charts New Path to Success

Vázquez,Gallagher Goals Propel Austin FC to Victory Over San Diego FC

Brandon Vázquez scores first goal for Austin FC,fueling a 2-1 win against expansion side San Diego FC,as Stuver’s goalkeeping seals the deal.

March 24, 2025

AUSTIN, Texas – in a thrilling Sunday night clash at Q2 Stadium on March 23, 2025, Brandon Vázquez and defender Jon Gallagher delivered early goals to secure a 2-1 victory for Austin FC against the expansion side San Diego FC. Goalkeeper Brad Stuver’s stellar performance ensured the goals stood, handing San Diego FC their first loss of the season.

Vázquez, the newly acquired striker, celebrated his first goal in Austin colors. As #9 “This is the way,” he said to himself,securing the lead in the 10th minute,sending a wave of optimism through the home crowd. For Vázquez, this goal is more than just a point on the scoresheet; it’s a statement of intent as he aims to regain his prominence in MLS and perhaps catch the eye of the U.S. Men’s National team.

I feel very, very happy to have put my first goal for this team, Vázquez said post-match. I have worked very, very strong every day with this team to be marking and help win this team.

Brandon Vázquez, Austin FC Striker

Gallagher’s contribution further solidified Austin’s advantage, showcasing the team’s offensive capabilities early in the match. While the final score was close, Austin demonstrated control for significant portions of the game.

Vázquez’s Quest to Reclaim His Peak Form

after a stint in Liga MX,which did not meet expectations,Vázquez’s return to MLS with Austin FC is seen as a fresh start. His debut goal signals a potential return to the form he displayed during his standout years with FC Cincinnati. in the 2022 and 2023 seasons,Vázquez notched an remarkable 37 goals and 10 assists in 77 games. That performance, coupled with Luciano Acosta’s MVP-caliber play, propelled FC Cincinnati to win the Supporters’ Shield in their fifth season, a stark contrast to their initial struggles as the league’s underdogs.

Austin FC’s acquisition of Vázquez reflects their ambition to become a top contender in the league.His scoring ability is viewed as a crucial element in elevating Austin’s competitiveness. The team currently sits in second place in the Western Conference with nine points, trailing behind the Vancouver Whitecaps. However, Vázquez believes there’s room for improvement:

I think as I said we have to improve, not forgive opportunities, Vázquez noted. We had many opportunities and waste them,so I think we have to improve that,continue working hard and we have the talent in this team to continue up there.

Brandon Vázquez, Austin FC Striker

Is a USMNT Call-Up on the Horizon?

Vázquez’s recent performance raises questions about his potential return to the U.S. men’s National Team (USMNT). With the FIFA 2026 World Cup on the horizon, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, the USMNT is evaluating its options for bolstering its attacking prowess.

While Vázquez was not called up for the CONCACAF Nations League finals, where the USMNT struggled with scoring, his physical presence and goal-scoring instincts could be valuable assets. Head coach Gregg Berhalter has previously indicated a willingness to give opportunities to MLS players who demonstrate they deserve it.

The upcoming Gold Cup in the summer presents another opportunity for Vázquez to showcase his abilities and compete for a spot on the national team. Though, he faces competition from other MLS players and those based in Europe.A strong showing with austin FC in the coming months could considerably increase his chances of selection.

Several factors could influence Vázquez’s chances of a USMNT call-up:

• Sustained goal-scoring form with Austin FC
• Performance compared to other USMNT striker candidates
• Tactical fit within the USMNT’s system

Upcoming Challenge: St. Louis CITY SC

Vázquez’s skills will be put to the test on March 30, when Austin FC travels to face St. Louis CITY SC, currently boasting one of the league’s stingiest defenses. The match promises to be a compelling contest between Austin’s attack and St. Louis’s defensive solidity.

Given teh title and the content of the article, what are the striker’s primary goals for the 2025 season

Austin FC Striker Brandon Vázquez on Victory, USMNT Hopes: An archyde Interview

Archyde News Editor, Amelia Stone, sat down with Austin FC striker Brandon Vázquez following the team’s 2-1 victory over San Diego FC. they discussed his debut goal, the team’s performance, and his aspirations for a USMNT call-up.

Interview with brandon Vázquez

Amelia Stone: Brandon, congratulations on your frist goal for austin FC! How did it feel to score that early goal and set the tone for the match?

Brandon Vázquez: Thank you. It felt amazing, honestly. To get that first goal, especially at home in front of the fans, was just incredible. It gave us a strong start and really energized the team.

Amelia Stone: the team seems to have gelled quickly. How would you assess the overall performance against San Diego FC?

Brandon Vázquez: we played well in parts, and we showed a lot of quality.However, we know we can improve. we had opportunities we didn’t convert, and we need to be more clinical in front of the goal. We have a lot of talent,and we’re working hard every day to get better,and to find each other on the pitch.

Amelia Stone: Your return to MLS from Liga MX is much anticipated. You had a great run with FC Cincinnati,culminating in Supporters’ Shield glory. how do you feel about this second chance in the league, and how does Austin FC fit your ambitions?

Brandon Vázquez: It’s a fresh start, absolutely. I’m really excited about being here in Austin. The club has big ambitions, and that aligns with my own. We want to be a top team in MLS, and I believe we have the potential to do that.It’s just a matter of putting in the work, week in and week out.

Amelia stone: Obviously, the USMNT always on your mind. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup looming,do you see this season with Austin FC as a platform to get yourself back into the national team picture?

Brandon Vázquez: Absolutely. That’s the goal. My ambition is to be there, and to represent my country. I know that playing well for Austin FC is the best way to make that happen. I have to keep scoring goals, keep proving myself, and hopefully, the possibility will come again.

Amelia Stone: The upcoming match against St.Louis CITY SC will be testing Austin’s attack against one of the league’s toughest defenses. what’s your strategy going into that game?

Brandon Vázquez: St. Louis are a good team, there’s no doubt whatsoever. They defend well, and they will make it tough for us. We’ll need to be disciplined, we have to be patient, and definately take the chances we create. It’s a challenge we’re looking forward to, and a chance to prove ourselves.

Amelia Stone: From the perspective of the fans, what would you tell them about the team’s goals for this season?

Brandon Vázquez: We want to win. We want to bring a championship to Austin. That’s the ambition of the team, and we want to do it for the fans. We want them to know that we’re working hard every day, we’re giving it our all, and we want to make them proud.

Amelia Stone: Brandon,what message do you want to send to any critics doubting your ability to return to your previous form?

Brandon Vázquez: I’m not worried about them. I know what I’m capable of.I’m focused on myself, focused on the team, and focused on helping Austin FC achieve it’s goals. My feet will do the talking as i used to say.

Amelia Stone: Brandon, thank you for your time and your insights. We look forward to seeing more of your success with Austin FC.

Brandon Vázquez: Thank you so much. Pleasure is all mine.