New Mexico United played to a 3-3 draw against Oakland Roots SC on Saturday at The Lab, extending their unbeaten streak to six matches. The result leaves New Mexico United with a record of 13 wins, 10 losses, and 6 draws, totaling 45 points. The club has already secured a spot in the 2025 USL Championship Playoffs and is now focused on improving its playoff position with one regular-season game remaining.
The match began with an early goal from Mukwelle Akale in the 13th minute, giving New Mexico United a 1-0 lead. Oakland Roots SC responded three minutes later by converting a penalty to tie the game at 1-1. An own goal by Oakland restored United’s lead in the 16th minute, making it 2-1.
Before halftime, Akale drew a foul in the box and defender Talen Maples converted the resulting penalty for his sixth goal of the season, pushing the score to 3-1. Oakland then converted another penalty in the 40th minute to reduce the deficit to 3-2.
In the second half, Oakland completed their comeback by scoring an equalizer in the 82nd minute. Both teams created chances late in the match but were unable to find a winning goal before full time.
"Mukwelle Akale was a constant attacking threat throughout the match, opening the scoring in the 13th minute with a composed finish. His relentless pressure continued to trouble Oakland’s back line, and just before halftime, he drew a foul in the box to set up a key penalty opportunity."
"Defender Talen Maples stepped up to take that penalty and calmly converted, marking his sixth goal of the season. In addition to his offensive contribution, Maples delivered a composed performance defensively, helping steady United through a tense, back-and-forth contest."
Statistically, Oakland had more shots (15) compared to New Mexico’s ten and eight shots on target versus two for United. New Mexico’s goalkeeper made five saves while Oakland had none. Corner kicks favored Oakland eight to two.
Yellow cards were issued throughout the match: Gedion Zelalem (34’), Kalen Ryden (39’), Valentin Noël (53’), Kris Shakes (83’), and Ousman Jabang (85’) for New Mexico; Daniel Gomez (55’) and Jürgen Damm (82’) for Oakland.
New Mexico United will conclude its regular season on Friday, October 24 at The Lab against Rhode Island FC during Blackout Night. With playoff seeding still undecided and postseason play approaching, United aims for a strong finish at home.
