US Open Cup: Osman Bukari scores, Austin FC reaches final with last-second winner

Austin FC will compete for the first trophy in their brief history after goals from Osman Bukari and CJ Fodrey carried Los Verdes to a 2-1 US Open Cup semifinal victory at Minnesota United on Wednesday evening.

Bukari breaks and Verdes take the lead 🟢#USOC2025 // @AustinFC pic.twitter.com/rs8PUTDCPy

— U.S. Open Cup (@opencup) September 18, 2025

Deep into first half stoppage time, Ghanaian winger Bukari got behind the Minnesota defense and his shot barely snuck over the goal line after getting under United goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair. The goal came somewhat against the run of play at Allianz Field, where Minnesota hosted the semifinal from the United States’ top domestic cup.

Minnesota fought back in the second half and leveled the match through an excellent free kick from Joaquin Pereyra. However, Austin did well to keep the match even and Minnesota failed to assert their home advantage as the match remained tied 1-1 after ninety minutes.

The hosts paid dearly in the final seconds of extra time. With penalty kicks beckoning, Austin right back Jon Gallagher was played in on the right wing and his cross was headed on target by Myrto Uzuni. St. Clair saved but spilled the ball into the path of Fodrey who bundled in from close range to steal the victory.

YOU’RE GONNA BE THE ONE THAT SAAAAAVES MEEEE pic.twitter.com/VGlaTLTm2U

— Austin FC (@AustinFC) September 18, 2025

Only founded about seven years ago in 2018, Austin FC will now compete for a trophy for the first time in the club’s history. They will host the final against Nashville SC on October 1 at Q2 Field in the Texan capital.

Bukari’s 2025 season continues to be inconsistent but the former Red Star Belgrade player has enjoyed success in the cup. He has 2 goals and 1 assist from four cup matches, bringing his total in all competitions to 5 goals and 8 assists in 33 appearances.