New Mexico United faced off against San Antonio FC at Isotopes Park, with the Kings of Chaos ending San Antonio’s season with a 2-0 score in their USL Conference Quarter Finals match on Saturday, Nov. 1st.
Numerous Albuquerque public figures showed up to show their support for United, such as former Lobo power forward and NBA veteran Kenny Thomas, incumbent Mayor Tim Keller, and former UFC fighters Holly Holm and Carlos Condit. United goalkeeper Kris Shakes continued to illustrate how crucial his performances have been to the recent success of the Black and Gold, racking up four saves, earning himself a shutout.
Just before the four-minute mark, United midfielder Valentin Noël narrowly missed a spectacular goal from a considerable distance, with the ball reflecting off the crossbar back onto the pitch. Despite this brief setback, New Mexico kept up the pressure, with it paying off in a huge way after forward Mukwelle Akale capitalized on a ball overplayed by San Antonio goalkeeper Richard Sanchez, allowing United to strike first shortly after 20 minutes of playtime.
Despite San Antonio’s unrelenting offense, Shakes refused to back down, making highlight-reel worthy saves that continued to amaze the 8,287 spectators in attendance. Possibly motivated by earlier in the match, Noël managed to out-maneuver San Antonio defender Alexis Souahy to score early in the second half, to extend United’s lead to 2-0.
When asked about what makes his team so dangerous, United Head Coach Dennis Sanchez touched on how belief is key.
“You have a group of guys that honestly believe that they can play against anybody on any given day, and when you couple that with an identity and the quality and character that we have, anything can happen,” Sanchez said.
New Mexico United will face off against Orange County SC in the Conference Semifinals on Saturday, Nov. 8.
John P. Hefti is a freelance reporter and photographer for the Daily Lobo. He can be reached at sports@dailylobo.com or on X @dailylobo
