As New Mexico United’s playoff run continues, they once again find themselves at home, facing a club that some would have hoped to avoid. Las Vegas Lights FC has been one of the most surprising clubs of the year. At the beginning of the season, no one knew what to expect and the turn-around from 2023 to now has been nothing short of incredible. Now, the two clubs face each other in the Western Conference Semifinals.
Las Vegas caught everyone off-guard this season. After languishing at the bottom of the table since their inception, there wasn’t much there. Many talking heads around the league didn’t expect this season to be any different. Instead, they came in with new ownership and a new lease on life. A slow start turned into a long unbeaten run and a chance to finish second in the West.
While they didn’t finish second, they gave it a run and nearly pulled it off. They pieced together a roster that lost some high quality talent in the off season and replaced them with Khori Bennett and Valentin Noel. Two dynamic forwards, and a solid defense, helped put them into this position. Dennis Sanchez took various pieces and turned them into a dangerous club. A club that pushed United to the brink twice this season as the sides split the season series with a win each.
Player to Watch
Valentin Noel – Noel was a thorn in United’s side both times the clubs met this season. He’s a player who has enough pace to beat United’s centrebacks and play in and around the box. He will likely draw the attention of Talen Maples throughout the evening and will need to be shut down if United wants to win on Saturday.
The Lights gave United their first loss at home this season. That’s one that United will want back. After coming from behind last weekend against Rising, it gives hope that United can do the same if needed. But, they won’t want to be in that position again. Despite what seemed to be a slow start against Rising, United remained steady defensively and didn’t give up quality chances. They will need to do the same against Lights if they want to go to the conference finals.
United’s key will be the defensive line. Maples and potentially Kalen Ryden will be the anchors for this weekend. They need to lock down the central defense. Outside, United will likely see Will Seymore and Chris Gloster on the edges. By forcing Bennett and Noel inside it will slow them down and create opportunities for United to counter. This will be a test for United, there’s no two ways about it. At home, United has been one of the best. But, not perfect. They will need to stay compact at the back, don’t let Lights beat them off the edge and keep possession going forward.
Player to Watch
Mukwelle Akale – Akale was the catalyst for everything that went right for United last weekend. They will need his wing play and ability to get the ball forward if they want to break down Lights.
Coverage of Saturday’s match will begin at 6:30 p.m. (MST) with the pregame show starring Adam Diehl and Andy Hageman. Following the pregame show, kickoff will be at 7:30 p.m. (MST). Catch every minute of every play all season long on ESPN Radio 101.7 FM The TEAM, The TEAM website, and The TEAM apps.
