As New Mexico United looks ahead to the second half of their season, the club sits in first place in the USL’s Western Conference with a bit of a cushion. With how the schedule has played out so far, United is five points clear of second place Oakland Roots and has at least two matches in hand over the rest of the conference. This should give United plenty of confidence heading back into league play against Birmingham Legion FC on Saturday night.
Legion isn’t quite where its supporters would like them to be. They’ve dealt with a number of injuries this season and a lack of consistency has held them back. Of late, their form has left a lot to be desired. They’ve lost three of five and sit sixth in the Eastern Conference. The club is making a cross-country trip after a loss on Wednesday to newcomers Rhode Island.
Ironically, part of the inconsistent results is their record on the road compared to at home. The Legion have actually been better away from their home part. Normally that would be a reason to be concerned, but they’re coming in to face a United side that hasn’t lost at home since September of 2023. For Legion to have a chance, they’ll need to break down the midfield of United, which has been nearly impossible to do in Albuquerque. They’ll need to take advantage of any mistakes in the midfield and look to Enzo Martinez or Tyler Pasher to finish in the final third.
Player to Watch
Enzo Martinez – Martinez has been Mr. Reliable for Legion this season. Having played nearly every minute of the season, he’s been a leader for Legion. If he has a strong showing in the midfield, he could open up chances for them to get forward and threaten the United goal.
Despite losing to LAFC in the Open Cup last week, United has a lot going for them. They’re at the healthiest they’ve been all season, they’re still perfect at home, and they have a ton of confidence. The club is also chasing history. They have a handful of notable marks ahead of them – the record for most consecutive home wins is 13, the record for most consecutive home wins to start a season is 9, and the most wins in a season for the club is 13.
The +3 goal differential has some supporters concerned, but this is a club that has become comfortable playing in tight matches. Whether the win comes by just one goal or more, they’ve figured out how to close matches out. That falls to the play of the defense in front of Alex Tambakis. Even with the lopsided losses early in the season, the club has allowed the fourth-fewest goals (20) in the league this season. All of these point to United being able to maintain their lead in the West and control the match. United’s defense has been stout at home, allowing only 4 goals in 7 matches. This is where United will win this match—keeping Legion’s shots down and holding them to a clean sheet.
Player to Watch
Marco Micaletto – Micaletto has been the man to control the midfield for United this season. His vision and box-to-box play has not only stopped opposing attacks but provided openings to go forward. Look for Micaletto to hold steady and use his distribution to create chances inside the area.
Saturday’s match is scheduled for a 7 PM (MT) kickoff, but coverage of the match begins at 6 PM (MT). Coverage of New Mexico United can be head on ESPN Radio 101.7 FM The TEAM. Every match is preceded by the pregame show starring Adam Diehl and Andy Hageman. The pair bring every minute of every play all season long on ESPN Radio 101.7 FM The TEAM, The TEAM website, and The TEAM apps.