New Mexico United secured a 2-0 win over San Antonio FC in the USL Championship Quarterfinals on November 1, 2025. The match took place at Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park, with nearly 9,000 fans in attendance. With this victory, New Mexico United advances to the Western Conference Semifinals.
The home team began aggressively, with Valentin Noël almost scoring early when his shot hit the crossbar. Shortly after, Mukwelle Akale scored the opening goal by capitalizing on a rebound. This goal made Akale New Mexico United’s all-time playoff goals leader with two goals.
Before halftime, United created several chances and goalkeeper Kris Shakes made an important save in the 39th minute to maintain their lead. In the second half, United continued to control possession. Noël added a second goal in the 58th minute after receiving a pass from Kipp Keller. Shakes contributed further by stopping a San Antonio free kick in the 72nd minute, helping secure a clean sheet in his first playoff start.
After the match, players and fans celebrated what was described as a complete team performance.
"Mukwelle Akale — Opened the scoring and made history as New Mexico United’s all-time playoff goals leader. His creativity, movement, and relentless work rate kept San Antonio’s defense under pressure throughout the match."
"Valentin Noël — Doubled United’s lead with a composed finish and nearly found the net earlier with a strike off the crossbar. A consistent attacking threat who dictated play in the final third."
"Kris Shakes — Earned a clean sheet in his first playoff start, anchoring United’s defense with confidence. Delivered two critical saves that preserved the lead and secured the victory."
The match statistics showed New Mexico United had 13 shots compared to San Antonio's six and both teams registered four saves each. The game included yellow cards for Gedion Zelalem (33’) and Dayton Harris (71’) of New Mexico United, and Jorge Hernández (75’) of San Antonio FC.
With this result, New Mexico United moves forward to compete in the Western Conference Semifinals of the USL Championship Playoffs as they continue their postseason campaign.
