New Mexico United vs Phoenix Rising: USL League One Cup Rivalry

New Mexico United and Phoenix Rising renew a growing rivalry in the USL League One Cup group stage at Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park, with both sides level on three points and still chasing control of Group 2.

The hosts sit 4th with a goal difference of -3 after two games (form: W-L), having won their only home outing 2-1 but been thrashed 4-0 away. Phoenix are 3rd (form: W-L), also on three points with two goals scored and two conceded, all at home; this will be their first away fixture of the group.

Head-to-Head

Head-to-head, Phoenix have had the upper hand recently. They won the most recent meeting 3-0 at home in April 2026 and also edged a 2-1 victory in Albuquerque in May 2025. New Mexico did claim a 1-0 away league win in October 2025, while Phoenix advanced on penalties after a 3-3 cup thriller in June 2025. Across the last five competitive clashes, Phoenix have three wins in regulation to New Mexico’s two.

Statistics

Statistically, both teams average 1.0 goals for per game in this cup, but New Mexico’s defence has been far more porous (5 conceded vs Phoenix’s 2).

Verdict: Phoenix Rising to avoid defeat, with a slight edge to the visitors.