San Jose Earthquakes struggled to maintain leads, losing to Austin FC 3-2 in penalty kicks during the U.S. Open Cup quarterfinal. Captain Christian Espinoza had to leave the game due to a serious leg injury caused by a high kick from Mikkel Desler. The Earthquakes had opportunities to win, including a goal from Benji Kikanovic in the 99th minute, but failed to secure victory. The match was filled with tension, yellow cards, and concluded with Austin's success in the shootout, leading them to the semifinals.
San Jose failed to protect one-goal leads and team captain Christian Espinoza exited prematurely with a gashed leg, resulting in their ouster from the U.S. Open Cup.
Austin FC prevailed in penalty kicks to oust San Jose 3-2 in a heated quarterfinal before 10,754 at a half-filled PayPal Park.
Espinoza's wound, requiring 10 stitches, resulted from a controversial high kick by Mikkel Desler, leading to his exit from the match.
Despite a dramatic 99th-minute go-ahead goal from Benji Kikanovic, San Jose could not secure the victory and ultimately lost in the penalty shootout.
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