Ted Lasso star, who plays the enthusiastic striker Dani Rojas, has brought his on-screen soccer dreams to life by making his professional debut. The actor joined an American soccer club earlier this year and recently stepped onto the pitch for his first match.

Ted Lasso’s Cristó Fernández makes his professional soccer debut

During El Paso Locomotive FC’s Saturday match against New Mexico United in the United Soccer League Cup, Cristó Fernández brought his Dani Rojas persona to life. He made his professional soccer debut in front of thousands of fans.

The forward entered the field as a substitute at Southwest University Park. More than 5,000 fans watched as he replaced Rubio Rubín in the 79th minute.

Fernández earned worldwide acclaim through his role as Dani Rojas in the Ted Lasso series. He signed a contract with second-division side El Paso Locomotive FC in May 2026. Although it was his first professional contract, the actor has a history with the sport. He previously played for Tecos FC at the youth level before an injury sidelined him.

While the Transformers: Rise of the Beasts star only signed with El Paso Locomotive FC in May, he had begun preparing for his return to the pitch much earlier. Fernández joined the team after completing a two-month trial period.

Saturday’s match marked a significant moment in Fernández’s career. However, his debut could not help El Paso Locomotive FC overcome New Mexico United. The Texas team suffered a 2-0 defeat in the United Soccer League Cup match.

As for Fernández’s stint in Ted Lasso, it remains unclear if Dani Rojas will appear in Season 4. The new season premieres on Apple TV on August 5, 2026. With the storyline now focusing on a women’s team, Fernández and some of his onscreen teammates could potentially make guest appearances.