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 chasing qualification from Group 2.

The hosts sit 4th in the group (3 points, goal difference -3) after a mixed start: one home win and one heavy away defeat. Their cup form strip reads W-L, with 2 goals scored and 5 conceded across two matches. Phoenix Rising are 3rd (3 points, goal difference 0), also at W-L from their opening fixtures, having scored and conceded twice, all at home. This will be Phoenix’s first away outing in the competition.

Head-to-Head

Head-to-head, Phoenix have edged recent meetings, winning 3-0 at home in April 2026 and 2-1 away in May 2025, while New Mexico claimed a 1-0 away league win in October 2025. In the 2025 USL League One Cup, Phoenix advanced on penalties after a 3-3 draw.

Match Outlook

New Mexico are stronger at home in this cup (2-1 their best result), but Phoenix’s recent dominance in the matchup suggests a tight contest. With both teams yet to keep a clean sheet, a high-tempo, score-heavy encounter is likely, with Phoenix slightly better placed to avoid defeat.