New Mexico United will travel to Texas this weekend to face San Antonio FC in a key USL Championship Western Conference matchup. The team currently holds ninth place in the conference and is aiming to strengthen its playoff chances as the season nears its conclusion.
This match marks the second meeting between New Mexico United and San Antonio FC this season. In their previous encounter in June, New Mexico United secured a 4-2 win at home.
Defender Kalen Ryden recently returned from injury, playing 16 minutes off the bench last week. Ryden, who serves as team captain, is recognized for his leadership and ability to organize the defense, qualities that have been important during his absence.
Midfielder Valentin Noël has played an important role offensively for New Mexico United, providing creativity and energy. His ability to find space and connect plays in attack will be important against San Antonio’s defensive approach.
Goalkeeper Alex Tambakis is close to tying the USL Championship’s all-time record for regular-season shutouts, with one more needed to reach 52 clean sheets. Although Kris Shakes has started recent matches, Tambakis’ pursuit of this milestone remains a focus for the team this year.
Sergio Rivas, a midfielder from Albuquerque, is also nearing a personal achievement with 9,865 regular-season minutes played—135 short of reaching 10,000 career minutes. Rivas’ consistency has helped anchor the midfield throughout the season.
San Antonio FC aims to maintain its strong home record while securing its own playoff position. The team features forwards Jorge Hernández and Luke Haakenson, who together have contributed 15 goals or assists this year. San Antonio’s midfield is known for disrupting opposing teams and initiating counterattacks.
After Saturday's match in San Antonio, New Mexico United will return home on Wednesday, September 10 to play Detroit City FC at Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park at 7 PM MT.
