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In front of an electric crowd at The Lab, New Mexico United (14-10-6, 48 pts) capped off their regular season with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Rhode Island FC, extending their unbeaten streak to seven matches and building crucial momentum heading into the 2025 USL Championship Playoffs.

Friday night’s win was about more than just three points—it was a celebration of legacy and heart. Daniel Bruce, the club’s longest-tenured player, made his final professional appearance. “Brucey” delivered an emotional farewell speech that brought fans and teammates alike to their feet, setting the tone for a memorable evening at The Lab.

Fueled by that emotion, United carried Bruce’s spirit onto the pitch, striking first in the 21st minute when Mukwelle Akale found the back of the net after a pinpoint assist from Valentin Noël, marking Akale’s second goal in two matches. Rhode Island leveled the score in the 38th minute with a powerful header, but United answered before halftime.

Moments before the break, Chris Gloster was brought down in the box, earning a penalty that Talen Maples calmly converted to restore United’s lead at 2-1.

In the second half, United’s defense stood tall. Goalkeeper Kris Shakes delivered a standout performance, highlighted by a spectacular save in the 86th minute to preserve the victory. Despite late pressure from Rhode Island, United’s composure never wavered as they secured all three points and a confident stride into postseason play.

Standout Performers:

Talen Maples – Delivered the game-winning penalty and anchored the back line in a high-intensity matchup. The Texan continues his scoring surge, with four goals in his last five appearances.

Mukwelle Akale – Opened the scoring with a composed finish, maintaining his red-hot form and relentless pressure on opposing defenses.

Stats Summary: NM/RHI

Shots: 11/15

Shots on Goal: 4/5

Saves: 5/2

Corners Won: 6/5

Fouls: 15/12

Misconduct Summary:

RHI: Albert Dikwa (Yellow Card – 35’)

RHI: Marc Ybarra (Yellow Card – 41’)

RHI: JJ Williams (Yellow Card – 82’)

What’s Next:

New Mexico United now shifts its focus to the USL Championship Playoffs, entering the postseason on a seven-match unbeaten streak and riding a wave of momentum. With confidence soaring, United looks to make a deep playoff run—continuing to honor Daniel Bruce’s legacy through their play on the field.

Secure your seats for Round One of the Playoffs [HERE].

Playoff-bound and surging, New Mexico United returns to The Lab this Saturday for a must-see Western Conference clash against Orange County SC. Having already locked in a postseason spot with last week’s commanding win over Phoenix, United now shifts its focus to climbing the table—and potentially securing home-field advantage in the playoffs—on Oktoberfest Night before a passionate crowd. Kickoff is at 7 PM MT.

This will be the final regular-season meeting between these two sides. United dominated the first matchup with a 3-0 road win and now looks to double down on home soil, where the Black & Yellow have been nearly untouchable all year. A win not only completes the season sweep, but also brings United one step closer to locking in a home playoff fixture as the postseason approaches.

With momentum, home-field energy, and everything to play for, New Mexico United is poised for another big night under the lights.

Players to Watch: Talen Maples & Dayonn Harris

At the core of United’s back line, Talen Maples continues to prove he’s one of the most reliable defenders in the USL Championship. Strong in the air, composed on the ball, and fearless in the tackle, Maples is also making his presence felt on the other end of the pitch—scoring the game-winning goal in last week’s playoff-clinching win over Phoenix. Look for him to lead the charge again, especially against Orange County’s physical front line.

On the attacking end, Dayonn Harris brings blistering pace and relentless energy to United’s front line. A constant threat on the wing, Harris excels at stretching defenses, beating defenders one-on-one, and whipping in dangerous balls from wide areas. His creativity and speed will be key to breaking down Orange County’s compact and disciplined defensive shape.

Scouting the Opposition: Orange County SC

Orange County SC comes into Albuquerque in the thick of the playoff race and hungry for points. Known for their disciplined defensive structure and swift counterattacks, the Southern California side has built a reputation as one of the most tactically sound teams in the Western Conference. Leading the charge up front is forward Ethan Zubak, who has netted a team-high 11 goals and remains a constant threat in the final third. In goal, Colin Shutler anchors the defense with 5 clean sheets and a 64% save rate, providing stability and shot-stopping reliability. With both playoff implications and pride on the line, Orange County won’t make it easy—expect a tightly contested battle at The Lab.

What’s Next: The Final Push at The Lab

After Saturday’s Oktoberfest showdown, New Mexico United continues its crucial homestand with two final regular-season matchups at The Lab. The Black & Yellow host Oakland Roots SC on Sunday, October 19, followed by a high-energy Blackout Night against Rhode Island FC on Friday, October 24. With playoff seeding on the line and momentum building, every point matters as United looks to close the season with authority and gear up for a deep postseason run.

Secure your seats for the final two home matches now — get your tickets HERE.

New Mexico United travels to Arizona this Saturday for a pivotal Western Conference showdown against longtime rival Phoenix Rising FC. With the regular season winding down, United remains in the hunt for a playoff spot and will aim to pick up critical points on the road.

This marks the third meeting between the two sides this season. In their previous matchups, both teams displayed attacking firepower, with Phoenix narrowly edging out United on both occasions. Saturday’s matchup presents a key opportunity for United to turn the tide and claim a vital three points in the playoff race.

Players to watch: Hurst and Maples

Greg Hurst faces off against his former club, leading the Black & Yellow in goals. His ability to drop into midfield, and create plays makes him a constant threat. As United looks to break down Phoenix’s backline, Greg’s attacking ability will be needed against Phoenix.

On the defensive end, Talen Maples anchors United’s back line with his strength, and leadership. His ability to read the game, win duels, and organize the defense provides stability against Phoenix’s fast-paced attack.

New Mexico United Clinches a Playoff Berth If:

1) New Mexico United wins at Phoenix Rising FC

2) New Mexico United draws at Phoenix Rising FC AND Colorado Springs draws/loses vs. San Antonio FC

3) New Mexico United loses at Phoenix AND Colorado loses vs. San Antonio

About Phoenix Rising FC

Phoenix Rising enters Saturday’s matchup as one of the most consistent teams in the Western Conference, recognized for their fluid attack and resilient mindset. Forward Ihsan Sacko leads the team with seven goals, while Hope Kodzo Avayevu has been a dynamic force in the final third, contributing to 15 goals through goals and assists. On the defensive end, John Scearce has been a steady presence, ranking among the team’s top three in nearly every key defensive category.

Looking Ahead

Following Saturday’s match in Phoenix, New Mexico United returns to The Lab for their final home stretch of the regular season. With playoff implications on the line, every point is crucial as the Black & Yellow aim to finish strong and lock in a spot in the USL Championship Playoffs. United will host Orange County SC on Saturday, October 11 at 7 PM MT.

Get tickets HERE

New Mexico United travels to Colorado Springs this Wednesday for a Western Conference showdown in the USL Championship playoff race.

The Black & Yellow currently sit fifth in the USL Championship, fighting for the postseason and will look to keep building momentum as the regular season winds down. With a few matches remaining, every point matters, and United will aim to deliver a strong midweek performance on the road.

Wednesday’s contest will be the third meeting between United and the Switchbacks FC this year. In their previous two encounters, United secured a home victory in June during the Jagermeister cup, and drew in the first encounter in June. This clash gives United a chance to claim the season series and strengthen their hold on a playoff spot.

Standout Performers: Archimède and Keller

Forward Luther Archimède continues to be a spark for United’s attack, bringing energy, pace, and aerial ability. His late equalizing goal against Monterey Bay highlighted his gift for delivering in clutch moments. The sixth man has contributed two goals in six games off the bench, proving his talent.

Defender Kipp Keller has been a rock at the back for United since arriving, with his calm composure, strength, and sharp defensive instincts. His leadership on the backline and ability to read the game have been crucial in keeping opponents on their toes. His presence will be needed to keep Colorado’s attackers in check.

Milestones in Sight: Tambakis

Goalkeeper Alex Tambakis is on the verge of making USL Championship history, needing just one more clean sheet to become the league’s all-time leader. After recording his 58th career shutout recently—tying the current record held by Evan Newton—Tambakis will have the opportunity to stand alone at the top when United takes the field Wednesday night in Colorado.

About Colorado Springs

The Switchbacks have fought their way into playoff contention with their mix of grit and attacking ability. On the Attacking side Marco Micaletto has been getting it done, leading the team in goals with six. On the back line, Matthew Mahoney provides a physical and clinical presence, leading the Switchbacks in almost every defensive category this season.

Looking Ahead

Following Wednesday’s trip to Colorado, New Mexico United return home hosting Lexington SC on Sunday at 4 PM MT. With the postseason right around the corner, the Black & Yellow remain focused on collecting crucial points and carrying the momentum into October.

Get tickets HERE

New Mexico United (10-10-3, 33 pts) saw its two-match winning streak come to an end on Saturday night with a narrow 1-0 loss to FC Tulsa at Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park. A spirited crowd of 9,177 fans packed the stands for Meow Wolf Night, bringing vibrant energy and creativity to an evening defined by grit, determination, and defensive intensity.

Despite the result, New Mexico United remains in third place in the USL Championship’s Western Conference, maintaining a strong position in the playoff race with just weeks remaining in the regular season.

From the opening whistle, the Black & Yellow set the tone with aggressive pressing and sustained attacking pressure. United controlled much of the tempo, engaging in fierce midfield battles and generating several promising opportunities. The team’s relentless effort was on full display, reflecting the focus and urgency of its late-season push for postseason positioning.

The night also marked a significant personal achievement for Albuquerque native Sergio Rivas, who officially surpassed 10,000 regular-season minutes in the USL Championship. This milestone is a testament to Rivas’ consistency, durability, and high-level performance throughout his professional career.

As the match progressed, United continued to push for a breakthrough, creating multiple chances in the final third. However, the final touch eluded them. In stoppage time, a defensive miscue led to an own goal, giving FC Tulsa the narrow advantage and sealing the 1-0 result.

New Mexico United will now regroup and shift focus to its next fixture as it continues the fight for playoff positioning in the final stretch of the season.

Standout Performer: Will Seymore

Despite the result, Will Seymore was a key defensive presence for New Mexico United, recording ten crucial defensive contributions. His timely tackling and composure in possession helped anchor the midfield, maintaining stability for the team and setting an aggressive tone throughout the match.

Stats Summary: NM/TUL

Shots: 11/10

Shots on Goal: 1/2

Saves: 2/1

Corners Won: 6/3

Fouls: 18/12

Misconduct Summary:

TUL: Alex Dalou (Yellow Card – 24’)

NM: Ousman Jabang (Yellow Card – 42’)

NM: Chris Gloster (Yellow Card – 62’)

TUL: Eliot Goldthorp (Yellow Card – 94’)

NM: Kris Shakes (Yellow Card – 97’)

TUL: Trevor Amann (Yellow Card – 97’)

Up Next:

New Mexico United heads to California for a road matchup against Monterey Bay FC on Saturday, September 20th, with kickoff set for 8:00 PM MT. The team will then continue its road trip with a midweek clash against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC on September 24th.

New Mexico United returns to Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park on Wednesday night for a key cross-conference clash with Detroit City FC. Following a hard-fought victory on the road in San Antonio, the Black & Yellow currently sit sixth in the USL Championship’s Western Conference and will look to build on that momentum as they continue their push toward the postseason.

Wednesday’s match marks the first meeting between the two clubs this season. The last encounter came in September 2024 in Detroit, where United narrowly fell 1-0 in a tightly contested battle. With playoff implications at stake, United will aim to even the series and strengthen their position as the regular season enters its final stretch.

Standout Performers: Shakes and Harris

Goalkeeper Kris Shakes has been a steady presence between the posts, recording multiple clean sheets thanks to his sharp reflexes and sound decision-making. His recent performances have provided a sense of stability at the back, and we’ll be relying on him once again to help keep Detroit’s attack in check.

On the other end, winger Dayonn Harris has really found his form. He’s been a constant threat going forward, using his pace and creativity to stretch defenses and generate chances in the final third. His ability to take on defenders one-on-one will be a crucial factor against Detroit’s back line.

Chasing History: Tambakis and Rivas Nearing Milestones

Goalkeeper Alex Tambakis remains just one clean sheet away from tying the USL Championship’s all-time record of 52 regular-season shutouts. While Kris Shakes has recently featured between the posts, Tambakis’ pursuit of history remains a key storyline for United supporters this season.

Midfielder Sergio Rivas is also closing in on a significant career milestone. The Albuquerque native is just over 100 minutes away from reaching 10,000 regular-season minutes in the USL Championship—a testament to his durability, consistency, and vital role at the heart of United’s midfield.

Detroit City Brings Defensive Grit

Detroit City FC arrives in Albuquerque boasting one of the league’s most disciplined defensive units. Anchored by veteran defender Stephen Carroll and a reliable goalkeeping duo of Carlos Herrera and Carlos Saldana, Detroit has recorded eight clean sheets this season. Their compact and organized style has proven effective in frustrating opposing attacks and limiting quality chances.

Offensively, forward Darren Smith has been a key contributor, tallying 10 goals and three assists while proving dangerous from all areas of the pitch. His versatility and finishing ability make him a constant threat for opposing back lines.

Looking Ahead: Meow Wolf Night Set for Saturday

Following Wednesday night’s matchup, New Mexico United returns to Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park this Saturday for a showdown with FC Tulsa. The match is set for 7:00 PM MT and will feature the club’s annual Meow Wolf Night, promising a vibrant and immersive game day experience for fans.

Get tickets HERE

New Mexico United earned a hard-fought 0-0 draw on the road against Louisville City FC, the top team in the USL Championship.

The match was defined by disciplined defending and a standout performance from goalkeeper Kris Shakes, who came up with two critical saves—one in first-half stoppage time and another in the dying moments of the match—to secure the clean sheet.

It was a night of milestones and fresh faces for United. Sergio Rivas made his 150th USL Championship appearance, while Kipp Keller made his club debut, earning a start and delivering a composed performance on the back line. In the 72nd minute, Luther Archimède made his debut, bringing fresh energy to the pitch.

United stood firm under pressure and walked away with a valuable point in one of the league’s toughest environments.

Stats Summary: LOU/NM

Shots: 20/5

Shots on Goal: 4/1

Saves: 1/3

Corners Won: 12/5

Fouls: 13/10

Misconduct Summary:

LOU: Arturo Ordóñez (Yellow Card – 32’)

Up Next: 

New Mexico United returns home on Saturday, August 30, for Indigenous Peoples Night as they host Sacramento Republic FC at Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. MT, and tickets are available now.

New Mexico United and Las Vegas Lights FC battled to a 2–2 draw on Saturday night at Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park, with 11,581 fans in attendance. The result sees United drop to sixth place in the USL Championship Western Conference standings.

The match got off to a fast start, as United’s Valentin Noël opened the scoring in the 5th minute with a powerful strike that beat the Las Vegas goalkeeper and gave the home side an early 1–0 lead.

A cheeky finish from @Vlnt_Noel puts @NewMexicoUTD ahead! 😏 https://t.co/En3xK5A291 pic.twitter.com/gkbQNjzYdT

— USL Championship (@USLChampionship) August 17, 2025

Las Vegas responded quickly. In the 12th minute, New Mexico native Anthony Herbert capitalized on a defensive lapse and slotted home the equalizer to make it 1–1. The rest of the first half remained tightly contested, with neither side able to pull ahead before the break.

The visitors struck again in the 74th minute, as forward Nighte Pickering finished clinically to give Las Vegas a 2–1 advantage. But United continued to push forward, and with just three minutes remaining in regulation, Thomas Amang rose in the box to head home the equalizer from close range, sealing the 2–2 result.

Stats Summary: NM / LVL

Shots: 12/13

Shots on Goal: 2/4

Saves: 2/0

Corners Won: 5/4

Fouls: 15/9

Misconduct Summary:

LVL: Gennaro Nigro (Yellow Card – 23’)

LVL: Christopher Pearson (Yellow Card – 43’)

NM: Christopher Gloster (Yellow Card – 58’)

NM: Talen Maples ( Yellow Card – 63’)

NM: Talen Maples ( Red Card – 65’)

NM: Kristopher Shakes ( Yellow Card – 69’)

LVL: Nighte Pickering ( Yellow Card – 75’)

NM: Greg Hurst ( Yellow Card – 95’)

NM: Younes Boudadi ( Yellow Card – 95’)

Up Next for United:

New Mexico United travels to Kentucky to face Louisville City FC on Saturday, August 23, with kickoff set for 6:00 p.m. MT. The Black and Yellow return home the following week to host Sacramento Republic FC on Friday, August 30, for Indigenous Peoples Night at Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park.

Get tickets HERE