KC Reporter

Sporting Kansas City II faced a narrow 1-0 defeat against Austin FC II on Friday night at Parmer Field, Austin. The home team secured victory through Jorge Alastuey's goal, maintaining a strong defensive front and preventing Sporting KC II from registering any shots on target.

Sporting Kansas City II's head coach Istvan Urbanyi fielded Jack Kortkamp as the sole first-team loanee in goal. The defense comprised Cielo Tschantret, Pierre Lurot, and Nati Clarke, who effectively thwarted numerous attacks during the first half.

The match began with Austin FC II launching early attempts to score. Kortkamp successfully blocked an initial centering pass from Jimmy Farkarlun before Lurot cleared it. Despite a few close calls, both teams went into halftime without scoring.

The breakthrough came in the 51st minute when Alastuey capitalized on a cross from Farkarlun to net the game's only goal. Despite further efforts by Sporting KC II to equalize, including a long-range attempt by Lurot, they could not breach Austin's defense.

Aiden Benitez made his professional debut for Sporting KC II after signing an amateur contract earlier that day. Meanwhile, Gael Quintero replaced Johann Ortiz at halftime as part of strategic changes by Urbanyi.

Despite opportunities for both sides throughout the match, Austin FC II managed to secure all three points with their solitary goal. Sporting Kansas City II will host Timbers 2 at Children's Mercy Victory Field on July 5.