From London to the Lone Star State, Cristó Fernández is experiencing a bit of life imitating art with his professional soccer debut.
The Ted Lasso star, who signed with El Paso Locomotive FC in May, played his first game with the second division team on Saturday against New Mexico United, during which the Texas team lost 2-0 in the United Soccer League Cup match.
Fernández took to the field as a substitute for forward Rubio Rubín in the 79th minute of Saturday’s home match at Southwest University Park, which was attended by more than 5,000 fans.
Having previously played with Tecos FC at the youth level, before an injury sidelined him, Fernández signed with El Paso in May, following a two-month trial.
“Fútbol has always been a huge part of my life and identity, and no matter where life has taken me, the dream of competing professionally never truly left my hear,” he said in a statement at the time. “I’m incredibly grateful to El Paso Locomotive FC – the club, coaches, staff, and especially my teammates – for opening the doors and giving me the opportunity to compete from day one.”
Fernández continued, “This journey back to professional fútbol soccer is about believing in yourself, taking risks, and continuing to chase your dreams no matter how unexpected the path may be. Because as we say in Mexico: hay que seguirle echando ganas (let’s keep giving it our all). Siempre agradecido con Dios, mi familia y amistades por creer en mí. Maybe I’m just a crazy man with crazy dreams… so being here with the ‘Locos’ actually makes perfect sense. ¡Vamos Locos!”
As Fernández kicks off his first season with the Locos, it’s unclear if he will reprise his role as cheerful and passionate striker Dani Rojas in Season 4 of Ted Lasso, which premieres Aug. 5 on Apple TV+. With the storyline now focused on a women’s team, Fernández and some of his onscreen teammates could make guest appearances.
