Get ready for an exciting USL Cup showdown as New Mexico United hits the road to face Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC this Saturday at Weidner Field. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m., and you can catch all the action on New Mexico 50 or stream it live on ESPN+.
While the regular season takes a brief pause, the stakes are just as high in this tournament. New Mexico United currently sits at 3-3-1 in league play, while the Switchbacks hold a 2-2-4 record. Historically, United has dominated this rivalry with a commanding 13-4-3 series lead.
What's at Stake?
The USL Cup returns for its second edition this year, bringing a World Cup-style format that includes all 43 teams from the Championship and League One levels. Both teams are off to strong starts in group play—New Mexico defeated AV Alta FC 2-1 on April 25, while Colorado Springs edged Phoenix Rising FC 1-0. After Saturday's clash, each club has two more group-stage matches before the knockout rounds begin on August 13.
A Rivalry Renewed
These two sides have met 20 times since New Mexico's inaugural 2019 season, and it's been largely one-sided. United has claimed 13 victories, including a thrilling 3-2 win in their home opener earlier this year. That match featured late drama, with defender Ousman Jabang scoring the game-winner in the sixth minute of stoppage time, just moments after Colorado Springs' Khori Bennett had equalized in the 94th minute.
Road Woes Continue
While the USL Cup doesn't affect regular-season standings, United could really use a win away from Albuquerque. The team is an impressive 4-1-1 in home matches across all competitions but has struggled on the road with a 1-3 record. Their lone away victory came on April 4 against Orange County SC (1-0), and overall, New Mexico has been outscored 6-2 in road contests.
Switchbacks Love a Draw
Colorado Springs seems to thrive on late-game drama, with three draws in their last four regular-season matches. All four of their ties this season have featured dramatic equalizers, including a 96th-minute goal against Orange County and a stoppage-time own goal by San Antonio. This pattern sets up another potentially thrilling finish against United.
Key Matchup to Watch
Keep an eye on United defender Ousman Jabang and Switchbacks forward Khori Bennett. Jabang was the hero in their last meeting with that stoppage-time winner, but Bennett—who's tied for the USL regular-season lead in goals—will be hungry for redemption. It's a battle that could decide the outcome.