Can't make it to Los Angeles for Sunday's match? Austin FC's offering those fans who want to be with other fans an option.
The club announced Wednesday morning it will host a Watch Party presented by Netspend at Live Oak Park for Sunday afternoon's historic Western Conference Final match between Verde and Los Angeles Football Club.
Live Oak Park, the outdoor amphitheater on the east side of Q2 Stadium, has hosted a series of post-match concerts dating back to the tail end of its debut 2021 season. But this is the first time in Austin FC's history it will be employed for match viewing.
According to a press release from Austin FC, "the event will feature a poster giveaway, new playoff merchandise, and special drink pricing courtesy of Heineken." Fans can go to the Austin FC app to RSVP for the event. Doors will open at 12 p.m. CT, with the broadcast of the Austin FC vs. LAFC match beginning at 2 p.m., and kickoff expected at 2:18 p.m.
An MLS Cup berth, as well as a place in the 2023 Concacaf Champions League, hinge on results from this match as well as the Eastern Conference final match, kicking off at 7:25 p.m. CT, between the Philadephia Union and New York City Football Club.
If Austin FC wins, it will go to MLS Cup, and if NYCFC upsets Philly, Q2 Stadium will be the site of the final on Saturday, Nov. 5. If Austin and Philly triumph, the final will be at Subaru Park in Chester, Penn. If LAFC and Philly triumph, Austin FC will automatically get a berth to the 2023 CCL tournament by virtue of the team's regular-season record relative to the 2022 Supporters' Shield winners and the East's highest-placing team. If LAFC and NYCFC advance, Austin could still get to the CCL provided LAFC wins that coastal elite final at home.
Check in with The Striker for information on this and additional watch parties — including what Austin FC supporters groups might be hosting — prior to Sunday's match.
Note: This article was updated Friday to include the doors open change of time from 1 p.m. to noon.
