Osman Bukari stars as Austin FC continue playoff push with win

After a slow start to the season, Osman Bukari is starting to find more consistency with Major League Soccer side Austin FC and the Ghanaian was at his best on Saturday evening.

Cue the smoke! 😤@OsmanBukari9 gets in behind and nets the opener! pic.twitter.com/prkt1EUVkU

— Austin FC (@AustinFC) August 31, 2025

Bukari was involved in all three goals for the hosts as they overcame the San Jose Earthquakes for a 3-1 victory at Q2 Stadium. The former Red Star Belgrade star got out on the break and was able to get behind the San Jose defense in the 13th minute before firing past goalkeeper Daniel to open the scoring in the 13th minute.

The Accra Lions youth product then turned provider in the 33rd minute. After a San Jose defender made an ill-advised play to keep the ball in play, Bukari pounced to steal the ball and drove to the end line before crossing low for Myrto Uzuni to apply the final touch with a sliding finish into an empty net.

Party in the South End, hosted by Myrto Uzuni & @OsmanBukari9! 😆 pic.twitter.com/ShoeaLPpFj

— Austin FC (@AustinFC) August 31, 2025

San Jose made the match interesting with a strong second half effort, pulling a goal back in the 53rd minute. However, Bukari and Austin benefited from some good fortune in the 73rd minute when a low cross from the Ghanaian was redirected into the goal by San Jose defender Bruno Wilson for an own goal.

It was an important victory for Austin, who are in close competition with San Jose for a place in the MLS Cup Playoffs. With seven games remaining, Austin are in seventh place in the Western Conference with the top nine clubs qualifying for the postseason. They will next face Sporting Kansas City on the road on Sunday, September 7.

Bukari has been inconsistent during his time with Austin but Saturday reminded Verde supporters of his ability to produce Man of the Match performances. He now has four goals and eight assists in thirty matches between MLS and cup action.