
New Mexico United Set for Crucial Clash with Phoenix Rising FC
Published on October 3, 2025 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
New Mexico United News Release
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.
United Soccer League Championship Stories from October 3, 2025
- Game Information and Match Notes - SAFC vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC 10/4/25 - San Antonio FC
- Know Before You Go: Republic FC vs. Hartford Athletic - Sacramento Republic FC
- FC Tulsa Signs Brazilian Center Back Ian Carlos Souza Daniel - FC Tulsa
- Orange County SC Hosts El Paso Locomotive in Key October Matchup - Orange County SC
- Detroit City FC Opens October with a Home Match this Saturday against North Carolina FC - Detroit City FC
- Match Preview: Republic FC at Hartford Athletic (USL Jägermeister Cup Final) - Sacramento Republic FC
- Monterey Bay Visits Tampa Bay Rowdies at Al Lang Stadium in Final Regular Season Road Match of the 2025 Campaign - Monterey Bay FC
- Rowdies Woobens Pacius Earns First Call-Up to Haitian National Team - Tampa Bay Rowdies
- El Paso Locomotive FC Look to Build Momentum against Orange County SC - El Paso Locomotive FC
- Homegrown Defender Chibi Ukaegbu to Join U-20 U.S. Men's National Team Training Camp - Sacramento Republic FC
- Match Preview: North Carolina FC vs. Detroit City FC - North Carolina FC
- Hartford Athletic's Owen Presthus Receives U-20 U.S. National Team Training Camp Call-Up - Hartford Athletic
- Lexington SC Gears up for Match with Top-Ranked Tulsa in the Sooner State - Lexington Sporting Club
- New Mexico United Set for Crucial Clash with Phoenix Rising FC - New Mexico United
- What to Watch for as LouCity Hosts Indy Eleven with Players' Shield Near - Louisville City FC
- Preview: Rowdies vs Monterey Bay - Tampa Bay Rowdies
- Best Western Hotels & Resorts and United Soccer League Team Up to Celebrate Community Champions with Launch of Hometown Heroes Award - USL
- Patrick Zalupski Acquires Ownership of Rowdies - Tampa Bay Rowdies
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
Other Recent New Mexico United Stories
- New Mexico United Set for Crucial Clash with Phoenix Rising FC
- Rivals Bound by History, Fueled by Passion: United vs. Phoenix Rising
- Zico Bailey Receives National Team Call-Up for AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers
- United Prevails After Four-Hour Delay, Secures Key Victory in Playoff Push
- New Mexico United Hosts Lexington SC on Hispanic Heritage Night

