PHOENIX — Phoenix Rising notches its first win in the USL Jägermeister Cup, defeating New Mexico United in a penalty shootout thriller, 3-2.
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Phoenix Rising’s JP Scearce during a match during the New Mexico United on May 10, 2025. Credits – Phoenix Rising FC
The visitors started the scoring early off a Mukwelle Akale goal in the 14th minute. Rising answered back with two goals from Ihsan Sacko and Hope Avayevu to take the lead into halftime. However, New Mexico started to pick up pace in the second half.
New Mexico’s Luiz Fernando and McKinze Gains scored to get the lead right back. Down 3-2, Rising looked as if it would lose its second Jägermeister Cup match. In the 70th minute, Rising’s JP Scearce tied it up, erupting Phoenix’s crowd. Both clubs couldn’t get the lead back and went to penalty kicks.
May 7, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Rising midfielder Hope Avayevu (10) crosses the ball by Houston Dynamo midfielder Nicolás Lodeiro (20) during the second half at Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Six different players made goals in the match at full time.
Penalties For the Win
New Mexico started with a missed first penalty, with a blocked shot from Rising goalkeeper Patrick Rakovsky. It couldn’t get in its next three shots, as Rising made its first two.
ALL THE FEELS ????#TodosRojos pic.twitter.com/PwW6ifWwtb
— Phoenix Rising FC (@PHXRisingFC) June 1, 2025
Rising would miss its third and fourth shots while New Mexico made its fourth and fifth shots. With penalties two a piece, Phoenix made its fifth and final penalty shot and sealed the win, 3-2.
To The Next
May 7, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Rising goalkeeper Patrick Rakovsky (1) watches the play against the Houston Dynamo during the second half at Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Phoenix Rising returns to Jägermeister Cup action in a third-round matchup against Texoma FC on June 28 at 5:30 p.m.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
