New Mexico United secured a 0–0 draw against Louisville City FC, with goalkeeper Kris Shakes and newcomer Kipp Keller leading a robust defensive effort.
Louisville City FC entered the match as the league's top-scoring and strongest defensive team, positioning them as favorites against New Mexico United. The latter had lost four consecutive league games and was eager to end this streak. According to Seth Biddulph, United managed to frustrate Louisville’s attack for the entire match, resulting in a surprising draw at Lynn Family Stadium.
Biddulph reports that Kipp Keller made his debut just 24 hours after joining United on loan from Minnesota United FC. Despite the short notice, Keller integrated seamlessly into the defense, providing a vocal and steadying presence that United had been lacking due to suspensions, injuries, and transfers. His defensive skills and nine credited clearances were instrumental in limiting Louisville’s opportunities on goal.
Goalkeeper Kris Shakes demonstrated his value once again by making two crucial saves. In first-half stoppage time, he denied Aidan McFadden's curling free kick aimed for the corner with sharp positioning and reflexes. Later, he stopped Amadou Dia’s close-range strike in the final moments of the second half, maintaining a clean sheet despite Louisville's 20 shots.
While New Mexico United was out-shot 20 to 5, they showed signs of life towards the end of the game. Substitutes Dayonn Harris and new signing Luther Archimede brought pace and movement that stretched Louisville’s defense. This created one of United’s few attacking sequences when Sergio Rivas passed to Zico Bailey inside the box; however, it was blocked. Nonetheless, it highlighted United’s willingness to push forward late in the game rather than settle for a draw.
