New Mexico United is bringing international excitement to Albuquerque this summer. The club announced Wednesday that it will host Atlante FC, a historic team from Mexico's top division Liga MX, for an exhibition match on July 1 at 7:30 p.m. at Isotopes Park.

The timing couldn't be better. The friendly falls just after New Mexico's mental health off week, a mandated break in the USL Championship schedule. For United manager Dennis Sanchez, it's the perfect way to get his squad back in rhythm. "The guys want to play games. They get tired of hearing my voice, so the more that they can play, the better," Sanchez told the Journal.

This isn't New Mexico's first taste of international competition. In July 2023, the club hosted English side Sunderland AFC during its preseason tour, falling 3-2 in a spirited match that saw Milo Garvanian and Isaac Zuleta score late for the home side.

Atlante brings serious pedigree to the pitch. Founded in 1910, the club is one of Mexico's original professional teams and boasts an impressive trophy case: two CONCACAF Champions Cup titles (1983 and 2008-09), three Mexican top-division championships, and three second-division crowns. After 12 years in Liga de Expansión MX, the club is returning to Liga MX this season after acquiring Mazatlán's place in the top flight.

Adding to the intrigue, Atlante will be led by first-year manager Miguel Herrera, a familiar face to international soccer fans. Herrera previously coached the Mexican national team (2013-15) and Costa Rica (2025), and this marks his third stint as Atlante's manager. He actually played for the club during its 1992-93 championship season.

For United, facing a Liga MX side during its preseason preparation offers invaluable experience. "You're playing against a different level of competition, so there's an ability to adapt in real time," Sanchez explained. "It'll be a good test. Typically, it's a higher speed of play. More than anything, it's a great learning opportunity for us as a group."

If you're looking to gear up for this international showdown, make sure you're stocked with New Mexico United apparel to show your support at Isotopes Park. This is the kind of match that builds memories—and championship mentality.