2020 New Mexico United season

Last updated

New Mexico United
2020 season
Head coach Troy Lesesne
Stadium Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park
Albuquerque, New Mexico
USL Conference: 6th
Group C: 2nd
USL Cup Playoffs Conf. Semifinals
2020 U.S. Open Cup Cancelled
Four Corners Cup Cancelled
Biggest win OKC 0–3 NM (August 1)
Biggest defeat PHX 5–2 NM (August 8)
←  2019
2021  →

The 2020 New Mexico United season was the second season for New Mexico United in the USL Championship (USLC), the second-tier professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. [1] This article covers the period from November 18, 2019, the day after the 2019 USLC Playoff Final, to the conclusion of the 2020 USLC Playoff Final, scheduled for November 12–16, 2020. [2]

Contents

On March 12 the season was suspended for a minimum of 30 days due to concerns for player and fans health during the COVID-19 pandemic. [3]

On June 4, the league announced a return to play on July 11, 2020 [4] and on July 2 the club announced its updated schedule. [5]

Season in Review

Off-season and Pre-season

The club completed its inaugural season by leading the league in attendance while qualifying for the last playoff spot in the western conference, although they fell in the play-in round to the Sacramento Republic. Their run to the quarter-finals of the U.S. Open Cup saw them eliminate two established USLC clubs and two MLS clubs before falling to eventual runners-up Minnesota United FC. [6] One week after their elimination from the playoffs in October, the club announced that they would be retaining a majority (thirteen) of the players from the inaugural season roster. Fullback Ethen Sampson and midfielders Ken Akamatsu, Tommy Madden, and Toni Soler left the club at the expiration of their contracts after the 2019 season. [7] In November, the club announced that they had signed new contracts with two additional inaugural season players, midfielder Daniel Bruce [8] and defender Manny Padilla. [9] Santi Moar departed the club in December, moving to Four Corners Cup opponent Phoenix Rising FC. [10]

The club announced their first signing of the off-season, Amando Moreno, on December 5, followed by 2019 USL Cup winner Kalen Ryden on December 17. [11] [12] January saw three additions to the squad in goalkeeper Philipp Beigl, forward Sammy Sergi, and defender David Najem. [13] On January 29, New Mexico United drew USL League One opponent Greenville Triumph SC in the Second Round of the U.S. Open Cup, to be played April 7. [14] The club announced the signing of midfielder Andrew Tinari on February 7, the day before a scheduled preseason friendly against Colorado Springs Switchbacks. [15] However, inclement weather in Colorado Springs precluded the team from travelling to Albuquerque, and the match was canceled, replaced by a 60-minute intrasquad scrimmage. [16] On February 12, 2019, top scorer Kevaughn Frater completed a move to Indian Super League club Bengaluru FC on a short-term contract. [17] The next day, French midfielder Joris Ahlinvi became the final preseason addition to the squad, after not signing with FC Cincinnati as 53rd overall pick in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft. [18]

The club played preseason exhibitions against USL Championship opponents El Paso Locomotive, OKC Energy FC, Phoenix Rising FC, and USL League One Phoenix affiliate FC Tucson, all behind closed doors. [19]

Also during February, New Mexico state legislators approved a $4.1 million capital outlay to fund feasibility and design studies for a potential soccer-specific stadium in the city of Albuquerque. [20]

March

New Mexico United began the 2020 competitive season away at fellow 2019 expansion team Austin Bold FC. New signings Najem, Ryden, Parkes, and Sergi all debuted in the eventual 1–0 loss. [21] Before the next scheduled match against FC Tulsa, on March 12 the season was suspended for 30 days due to the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. [22] The next day, the U.S. Open Cup announced a temporary suspension of the competition. [23] The club's Second Round entrance against Greenville Triumph was therefore postponed indefinitely. On March 18, the suspension was extended until May 10 to comply with CDC recommendations. [24] As a result, games scheduled against FC Tulsa away on March 14, El Paso Locomotive FC at home on March 21, and Las Vegas Lights FC at home on March 25 were postponed. [25]

April

All matches in April were postponed due to the suspension of play. Games scheduled against Colorado Springs Switchbacks away on April 4, LA Galaxy II at home on April 11, Sacramento Republic away on April 18, and Real Monarchs at home on April 25 were postponed. [25] On April 30, the USL again extended the suspension, this time without setting a firm return date. [26]

May

All matches in May were postponed due to the suspension of play. Games scheduled against San Antonio FC away on May 9, Rio Grande Valley FC Toros away on May 16, Orange County SC at home on May 23, Portland Timbers 2 away on May 27, and away at Las Vegas Lights FC on May 30 were postponed. [25]

June

The first three matches in June were postponed due to the suspension of play, including games scheduled against OKC Energy at home on June 10, Phoenix Rising at home on June 13, and Reno 1868 away on June 20. [25] On June 24, the USL released a revised competition format to play an abbreviated season, aiming to return in July. Teams would be drawn into eight regional groups of four or five teams, with the top two from each group advancing to the 2020 USL playoffs. [27] The following day, the club was placed into Group C with Colorado Springs Switchbacks, El Paso Locomotive, and Real Monarchs. [28]

July

On July 2, the revised schedule was finalized to include inter-group matches against OKC Energy, Phoenix Rising, and Rio Grande Valley FC Toros. [29] Before the season restarted, on July 9 New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham announced that the club would not play games or practice in New Mexico, as part of a wider moratorium on contact sports ordered in response to the coronavirus pandemic. [30] On July 11, New Mexico United resumed play at Colorado Springs Switchbacks in their second competitive match of 2020. Chris Wehan and Saalih Muhammad scored to earn a 2–1 win, the latter of which would win the league's online fan poll goal of the week award. [31] Wehan and Devon Sandoval scored in a 2–2 away draw at El Paso Locomotive on July 15, both scoring again in a 2–1 win in a repeat fixture ten days later. Sandoval won the club's second goal of the week in three for United's second in the latter match on July 24, which would end up being the winner. [32] Cody Mizell won the fan-selected save of the week award in the same game, saving from a headed corner kick. [33]

Two players left the club in July, one temporarily and one permanently. Goalkeeper Ben Beaury left on a season-long loan to Reno 1868 on July 6, leaving Philipp Beigl as second-choice behind Cody Mizell. [33] On July 25, the club released defender Manny Padilla following an investigation into a sexual misconduct case during Padilla's collegiate soccer career. [34] [35]

August

The club began August with a 3–0 away win over inter-group opponents OKC Energy. Wehan scored in his fourth consecutive game since the resumption of play, along with Amando Moreno and Joris Ahlinvi, the first two new signings to score for the club. [36] On August 8, the club played their second consecutive inter-group match away against Phoenix Rising. Romeo Parkes scored the opening goal in an eventual 5–2 loss, which included a Junior Flemmings hat-trick. [37]

Club

Roster

As of July 25, 2020 [38]

[39]

No.NameNationalityPosition(s)Date of birth (age)Season signedPrevious clubApps. [note 1] Goals [note 2]
Goalkeepers
1 Cody Mizell Flag of the United States.svg GK September 30, 1991 (age 32)2019 Flag of the United States.svg Tampa Bay Rowdies 570
18Philipp Beigl Flag of Germany.svg GK September 27, 1992 (age 31)2020 Flag of Germany.svg TSV Landsberg 00
Defenders
3 Austin Yearwood Flag of the United States.svg LB August 12, 1994 (age 29)2019 Flag of the United States.svg Richmond Kickers 370
5 Josh Suggs Flag of the United States.svg LB/CB April 24, 1989 (age 34)2019 Flag of the United States.svg Colorado Springs Switchbacks 441
6 David Najem Flag of Afghanistan (2013-2021).svg RB/RM/LB May 26, 1992 (age 31)2020 Flag of the United States.svg Tampa Bay Rowdies 130
15 Rashid Tetteh Flag of Ghana.svg CB July 14, 1995 (age 28)2019 Flag of the United States.svg High Point Panthers 430
17 Justin Schmidt Flag of the United States.svg LB/CB November 2, 1993 (age 30)2019 Flag of the United States.svg Sacramento Republic 382
22 Kalen Ryden Flag of the United States.svg CB/LB January 29, 1991 (age 33)2020 Flag of the United States.svg Real Monarchs 171
Midfielders
4 Sam Hamilton Flag of the United States.svg DM/CB July 26, 1995 (age 28)2019 Flag of the United States.svg Colorado Rapids 392
7 Ryan Williams Flag of the United States.svg CM/AM October 11, 1996 (age 27)2019 Flag of the United States.svg John Brown University Golden Eagles 312
8 Juan Pablo Guzmán Flag of Colombia.svg DM/CM August 31, 1988 (age 35)2019 Flag of the United States.svg Oklahoma City Energy 490
10 Amando Moreno Flag of the United States.svg LW/RW/AM September 10, 1995 (age 28)2020 Flag of the United States.svg Chicago Fire 176
14 Chris Wehan Flag of the United States.svg LM/CM/AM/SS January 29, 1994 (age 30)2019 Flag of the United States.svg San Jose Earthquakes 5118
16 Saalih Muhammad Flag of the United States.svg CM/AM August 25, 1995 (age 28)2019 Flag of the United States.svg Penn FC 421
20 Andrew Tinari Flag of the United States.svg CM/AM September 12, 1995 (age 28)2020 Flag of the United States.svg Tampa Bay Rowdies 161
25 Daniel Bruce Flag of England.svg RW/RM May 13, 1996 (age 27)2019 Flag of the United States.svg UNC Charlotte 49ers 372
26 Joris Ahlinvi Flag of France.svg CM/RW July 13, 1995 (age 28)2020 Flag of the United States.svg Indiana Hoosiers 61
Forwards
9 Devon Sandoval Flag of the United States.svg CF June 16, 1991 (age 32)2019 Flag of the United States.svg Atlanta United 2 5220
19 David Estrada Flag of Mexico.svg / Flag of the United States.svg CF/RW/RM February 4, 1988 (age 36)2019 Flag of the United States.svg Tacoma Defiance 493
23 Sammy Sergi Flag of the United States.svg CF July 2, 1996 (age 27)2020 Flag of the United States.svg Xavier Musketeers 60
27 Romeo Parkes Flag of Jamaica.svg CF/LW/RW November 11, 1990 (age 33)2020 Flag of Ireland.svg Sligo Rovers (loan)162
  1. ↑ All competitive matches; includes substitute appearances
  2. ↑ Goals in all competitions

Transfers

Transfers out

Pos.No.PlayerTo clubExit dateRef.
MF 20 Flag of the United States.svg Josh Goss Free agentPreseason [40]
MF 26 Flag of Japan.svg Ken Akamatsu Free agentDecember 1, 2019 [41]
MF 23 Flag of the United States.svg Tommy Madden Free agentDecember 1, 2019 [41]
MF 6 Flag of Spain.svg Toni Soler Free agentDecember 1, 2019 [41]
DF 2 Flag of South Africa.svg Ethen Sampson Free agentDecember 1, 2019 [41]
FW 11 Flag of Spain.svg Santi Moar Flag of the United States.svg Phoenix Rising FC December 3, 2019 [10]
FW 10 Flag of Jamaica.svg Kevaughn Frater Flag of India.svg Bengaluru FC February 12, 2020 [42]
DF 24 Flag of the United States.svg Manny Padilla Released from contractJuly 25, 2020 [43]

Loans out

Pos.No.PlayerTo clubStart DateEnd DateRef.
GK 12 Flag of the United States.svg Ben Beaury Flag of the United States.svg Reno 1868 FC July 6, 2020End of season [44]

Transfers in

Pos.No.PlayerFrom clubDateRef.
FW 10 Flag of the United States.svg Amando Moreno Flag of the United States.svg Chicago Fire FC December 5, 2019 [11]
DF 22 Flag of the United States.svg Kalen Ryden Flag of the United States.svg Real Monarchs December 19, 2019 [12]
GK 18 Flag of Germany.svg Philipp BeiglFree agentJanuary 16, 2020 [13]
FW 23 Flag of the United States.svg Sammy Sergi Flag of the United States.svg Xavier Musketeers
DF 6 Flag of Afghanistan (2013-2021).svg David Najem Flag of the United States.svg Tampa Bay Rowdies January 31, 2020 [45]
MF 20 Flag of the United States.svg Andrew Tinari February 7, 2020 [15]
MF 26 Flag of France.svg Joris Ahlinvi Free agentFebruary 13, 2020 [46]

Loans in

Pos.No.PlayerFrom clubStart DateEnd DateRef.
FW27 Flag of Jamaica.svg Romeo Parkes Flag of Ireland.svg Sligo Rovers January 3, 2020End of season [47] [48]

Competitions

Exhibition

February 8 Preseason New Mexico United v Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC Albuquerque, New Mexico
12:00 pm Report Stadium: UNM Soccer Complex
Note: Match canceled. Colorado Springs was unable to travel due to weather.
February 8 Preseason Team Somos 0–0
(4–2 p)		 Team Unidos Albuquerque, New Mexico
12:00 pm Report Stadium: UNM Soccer Complex
Attendance: 2,147
Penalties
Note: Intrasquad scrimmage to replace canceled match vs Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. Played in two 30-minute halves.
February 15 Preseason El Paso Locomotive FC 1–4 New Mexico United El Paso, Texas
Zola Soccerball shade.svg2nd half' Report Parkes Soccerball shade.svg5'
Makinde Soccerball shade.svg35' (o.g.)
Sergi Soccerball shade.svg2nd half'
Sergi Soccerball shade.svg80'		Stadium: Westside Training Fields
Attendance: Closed-door
February 28 Preseason FC Tucson 2-0 New Mexico United Tucson, Arizona
trialist Soccerball shade.svg70'
Adams Soccerball shade.svg80'		Stadium: Kino North Stadium
Attendance: Closed to the public

USL Championship

Standings — Group C

PosTeam
PldWDLGFGAGDPtsPPGQualification
1 El Paso Locomotive FC 169522414+10322.00Advance to USL Championship Playoffs
2 New Mexico United 158342317+6271.80
3 Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC 162771928−9130.81
4 Real Monarchs 1632111425−11110.69
Source: USL

Position by round

Round12345678910111213141516
Stadium A A A A A A A A A A H H H H H H
ResultLWDWWLWWWDLWL-DW
Position3221111111112222
Updated to match(es) played on August 8, 2020. Source: Match reports
A = Away; H = Home; W = Win; D = Draw; L = Loss

Match results

On January 9, 2020, the USL announced the 2020 season schedule. [49]

March 71 Austin Bold FC 1–0 New Mexico United Austin, TX
6:30 PM MDT Twumasi Yellow card.svg 37'
Lima Soccerball shade.svg52' (pen.)
Troncoso Yellow card.svg 77'
Báez Yellow card.svg 85'		 Report Najem Yellow card.svg 77'Stadium: Bold Stadium
Attendance: 2,496
Referee: Malik Badawi

In the preparations for the resumption of league play following the shutdown prompted by the coronavirus pandemic, the remainder of United's schedule was announced on July 2. [50]

July 112   Four Corners Cup Colorado Springs Switchbacks 1–2 New Mexico United Colorado Springs, CO
6:00 PM MDT Daniels Soccerball shade.svg45+2' Report Muhammad Soccerball shade.svg25'
Wehan Yellow card.svg 56', Soccerball shade.svg87'		Stadium: Weidner Field
Attendance: 1,000
Referee: Laura Rodriguez
July 153 El Paso Locomotive FC 2–2 New Mexico United El Paso, TX
8:00 PM MDT Rebellón Yellow card.svg 37'
Salgado Yellow card.svg 40', Soccerball shade.svg43'
Fox Soccerball shade.svg45+5'
Jérôme Yellow card.svg 84'
Mares Yellow card.svg 90+6'		 Report Wehan Soccerball shade.svg11'
Tinari Yellow card.svg 49'
Parkes Yellow card.svg 53'
Sandoval Soccerball shade.svg76' (pen.)		Stadium: Southwest University Park
Referee: Chris Ruska
July 244 El Paso Locomotive FC 1–2 New Mexico United El Paso, TX
7:30 PM MDT Beckie Yellow card.svg 69'
Gómez Soccerball shade.svg86' (pen.), Yellow card.svg 87'
N'Toko Yellow card.svg 90+6'		 Report Wehan Soccerball shade.svg35'
Sandoval Soccerball shade.svg45+4'
Guzmán Yellow card.svg 76'
Mizell Yellow card.svg 87'		Stadium: Southwest University Park
Referee: Matthew Thompson
August 15 OKC Energy FC 0–3 New Mexico United Oklahoma City, OK
6:00 PM MDT Ibeagha Yellow card.svg 86'
Chavez Yellow card.svg 87'		 Report Moreno Soccerball shade.svg31'
Wehan Soccerball shade.svg45+3'
Mizell Yellow card.svg 82'
Ahlinvi Soccerball shade.svg90+4'		Stadium: Taft Stadium
Attendance: 1,582
Referee: Matthew Corrigan
August 86   Four Corners Cup Phoenix Rising FC 5–2 New Mexico United Scottsdale, AZ
7:30 PM MST Flemmings Soccerball shade.svg17', Soccerball shade.svg73', Soccerball shade.svg86'
Dadashov Soccerball shade.svg22'
Cochran Soccerball shade.svg52'
Lambert Yellow card.svg 57'
Calistri Yellow card.svg 80'		 Report Parkes Soccerball shade.svg5'
Guzmán Yellow card.svg 45+1'
Tinari Soccerball shade.svg59'
Moreno Yellow card.svg 89'		Stadium: Casino Arizona Field
Referee: Lukasz Szpala
August 157   Four Corners Cup Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC 0–1 New Mexico United Colorado Springs, CO
3:00 PM MDT Rubio Yellow card.svg 63'
Ferreira Yellow card.svg 90+4'		 Report Tinari Yellow card.svg 30'
Wehan Soccerball shade.svg45'
Najem Yellow card.svg 66'
Ryden Yellow card.svg 90+1'		Stadium: Weidner Field
Attendance: 1,000
Referee: Malik Badawi
August 198   Four Corners Cup Real Monarchs 0–2 New Mexico United Sandy, UT
8:00 PM MDT Powder Yellow card.svg 45+3' Report Ryden Soccerball shade.svg38'
Muhammad Yellow card.svg 42'
Williams Yellow card.svg 42'
Moreno Soccerball shade.svg68'		Stadium: Rio Tinto Stadium
Attendance: 465
Referee: Matthew Thompson
August 229   Four Corners Cup Real Monarchs 1–2 New Mexico United Sandy, UT
8:00 PM MDT Sierakowski Soccerball shade.svg53' Report Moreno Soccerball shade.svg5', Yellow card.svg 45'
Tetteh Yellow card.svg 29'
Wehan Soccerball shade.svg48'
Guzmán Yellow card.svg 55'
Ryden Yellow card.svg 87'		Stadium: Rio Tinto Stadium
Attendance: 570
Referee: Lukasz Szpala
August 2910   Four Corners Cup Colorado Springs Switchbacks 1–1 New Mexico United Colorado Springs, CO
5:00 PM MDT Lewis Yellow card.svg 54'
Daniels Soccerball shade.svg59'		 Report Tinari Yellow card.svg 37'
Moreno Soccerball shade.svg54' (pen.)
Williams Yellow card.svg 65' Yellow-red card.svg 75'
Mizell Yellow card.svg 90+3'		Stadium: Weidner Field
Attendance: 1,000
Referee: Farhad Dadkho
September 511 El Paso Locomotive FC 3–2 New Mexico United El Paso, TX
7:30 PM MDT King Soccerball shade.svg25', Yellow card.svg 40'
Yearwood Soccerball shade.svg60' (o.g.)
Fox Yellow card.svg 82'
Mares Soccerball shade.svg88'
Beckie Yellow card.svg 90'		 Report Estrada Soccerball shade.svg13', Yellow card.svg 44'
Sandoval Soccerball shade.svg41', Yellow card.svg 52'
Muhammad Yellow card.svg 70'
Wehan Yellow card.svg 89'		Stadium: Southwest University Park
Attendance: 1,519
Referee: Malik Badawi
September 1212   Four Corners Cup Real Monarchs 0–2 New Mexico United Herriman, Utah
12:00 PM MDT Giménez Yellow card.svg 23'
Vázquez Yellow card.svg 54'
Moberg Yellow card.svg 66'		 Report Tinari Yellow card.svg 30'
Moreno Soccerball shade.svg40', Soccerball shade.svg65'
Guzmán Yellow card.svg 90+2'		Stadium: Zions Bank Stadium
Referee: Elvis Osmanovic
September 2314 New Mexico United P–P Rio Grande Valley FC Toros Albuquerque, NM
TBA PM MDT Stadium: UNM Soccer Complex
Note: Match postponed due to a positive covid-19 test in the RGVFC organization. [51]
September 2615 New Mexico United 0–0 El Paso Locomotive FC Albuquerque, NM
7:30 PM MDT Borelli Yellow card.svg 28'
Rebellón Yellow card.svg 41'
Ryan Yellow card.svg 52'
Carrijó Yellow card.svg 68'		 Report Moreno Yellow card.svg 36'
Tetteh Yellow card.svg 88'		Stadium: UNM Soccer Complex
Attendance: 1,669
Referee: Ricardo Fierro
September 3016   Four Corners Cup Real Monarchs 0–1 New Mexico United Herriman, Utah
7:30 PM MDT Flores Yellow card.svg 17'
Moberg Yellow card.svg 23'
Ávila Yellow card.svg 29'
Jasso Yellow card.svg 62'		 Report Bruce Yellow card.svg 27'
Muhammad Yellow card.svg 38'
Ryden Yellow card.svg 46'
Ahlinvi Soccerball shade.svg57'		Stadium: Zions Bank Stadium
Attendance: 396
Referee: Chris Ruska

USL Cup Playoffs

October 10 Conf. Quarterfinals San Antonio FC 0–1 New Mexico United San Antonio, Texas
7:00 PM MDT Taintor Yellow card.svg 51'
PC Yellow card.svg 104'
Bailone Yellow card.svg 105+1'
Parano Yellow card.svg 115'		 Report Moreno Yellow card.svg 48'
Wehan Soccerball shade.svg101', Yellow card.svg 105+2'
Mizell Yellow card.svg 103'
Suggs Yellow card.svg 104'
Tinari Yellow card.svg 105+3'
Guzmán Yellow card.svg 107'		Stadium: Toyota Field
Attendance: 2,175
Referee: Elijio Arreguin

Four Corners Cup

On June 24, the league announced the structure of its Return To Play format, separating the league into eight separate groups for regional competitions. [52] Unfortunately, Phoenix was combined with the southern California clubs into Group B, while the other three cup competitors were combined with El Paso into Group C, making a full cup competition impossible for the year. [53] Matches between Four Corners clubs are identified but no cup will be awarded in 2020.

Statistics

As of October 18, 2020 [54]

Outfield players

#Pos.NameGPGSMin.GoalsAssists Yellow card.svg Red card.svg
3DF Flag of the United States.svg Austin Yearwood 151514090000
4DF Flag of the United States.svg Sam Hamilton 141010320010
5DF Flag of the United States.svg Josh Suggs 141211710110
6DF Flag of Afghanistan (2013-2021).svg David Najem 1377190020
7MF Flag of the United States.svg Ryan Williams 1423260011
8MF Flag of Colombia.svg Juan Pablo Guzmán 151411230050
9FW Flag of the United States.svg Devon Sandoval 141211134110
10FW Flag of the United States.svg Amando Moreno 171512366460
14MF Flag of the United States.svg Chris Wehan 151513197530
15DF Flag of Ghana.svg Rashid Tetteh 1054150020
16MF Flag of the United States.svg Saalih Muhammad 1498251130
17DF Flag of the United States.svg Justin Schmidt 11900000
19FW Flag of the United States.svg Flag of Mexico.svg David Estrada 1535011210
20MF Flag of the United States.svg Andrew Tinari 161411941050
22DF Flag of the United States.svg Kalen Ryden 171715301030
23FW Flag of the United States.svg Samson Sergi 60710000
25MF Flag of England.svg Daniel Bruce 1576550110
26MF Flag of France.svg Joris Ahlinvi 621862000
27FW Flag of Jamaica.svg Romeo Parkes 1687202110
—MF Flag of the United States.svg Manny Padilla [note 1] 221800000

Notes

  1. ↑ Player left the club before the conclusion of the 2020 season.

Goalkeepers

#NameGPGSMin.SVGAGAASO Yellow card.svg Red card.svg
1 Flag of the United States.svg Cody Mizell 1717153032181.059740
18 Flag of Germany.svg Philipp Beigl00000—000

    Related Research Articles

    The Western Conference is one of two conferences in USL Championship soccer.

    The 2019 USL Championship season is the ninth season of the USL Championship and third under Division II sanctioning. This is the first season in which the league is operating under the name "USL Championship," having used the name "United Soccer League" through 2018. The season began on March 8, 2019, and concluded on October 20, 2019; with each team playing 34 matches. 36 teams competed in the 2019 USL Championship season, split into 2 conferences of 18 teams each. Louisville City FC are the two-time defending USL Cup champions.

    The 2019 San Antonio FC season was the club's fourth season of existence. Including the San Antonio Thunder of the original NASL and the former San Antonio Scorpions of the modern NASL, this was the 10th season of professional soccer in San Antonio. The club played in the USL Championship, the second division of the United States soccer league system, and participated in the U.S. Open Cup.

    The 2019 Phoenix Rising FC season was the club's sixth season in the USL Championship and their third as Rising FC. They are the defending Western Conference Champions.

    The 2019 OKC Energy FC season was the club's sixth season of existence, and their sixth consecutive season in the USL Championship, the second tier of American soccer. Energy FC also took part in the U.S. Open Cup. The season covers the period from October 14, 2018, to the beginning of the 2020 USLC season.

    The 2019 Sacramento Republic FC season was the club's sixth season of existence. The club is playing in the USL Championship, the second tier of the American soccer pyramid. Sacramento Republic FC competed in the Western Conference of the USL Championship.

    The 2019 El Paso Locomotive FC season was the inaugural season for El Paso Locomotive FC in the USL Championship, the second-tier professional soccer league in the United States and Canada.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">2019 New Mexico United season</span> New Mexico United 2019 football season

    The 2019 New Mexico United season was the inaugural season for New Mexico United in the USL Championship, the second-tier professional soccer league in the United States and Canada.

    The 2019 Real Monarchs season was the fifth season for Real Monarchs in the United Soccer League Championship, the second-tier professional soccer league in the United States and Canada.

    The 2019 Orange County SC season was the club's ninth season of existence, and their ninth consecutive season in the United Soccer League Championship, the second tier of American soccer. Orange County were also scheduled to compete in the U.S. Open Cup.

    The 2019 Portland Timbers 2 season was the fifth season for Portland Timbers 2 in the USL Championship, the second-tier professional soccer league in the United States and Canada.

    The 2020 USL Championship season was the tenth season of the USL Championship and fourth under Division II sanctioning. This was the second season under the name "USL Championship", having used the name "United Soccer League" through 2018. Real Monarchs were the defending USL Cup champions. The 2020 season saw 35 teams participate in two conferences during the regular season.

    The 2020 San Antonio FC season was the club's fifth season of existence. Including the San Antonio Thunder of the original NASL and the former San Antonio Scorpions of the modern NASL, it was the 11th season of professional soccer in San Antonio. The club played in the USL Championship, the second division of the United States soccer league system, and were scheduled to participate in the U.S. Open Cup before it was postponed and ultimately cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This was the first season without Darren Powell as head coach. Former assistant coach Alen Marcina was named head coach on December 9, 2019.

    The 2020 Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC season was the club's sixth year of existence, and their sixth season in the Western Conference of the USL Championship, the second tier of the United States soccer league system.

    The 2020 El Paso Locomotive FC season was the second season for El Paso Locomotive FC in the USL Championship (USLC), the second-tier professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. This article covers the period from November 18, 2019, the day after the 2019 USLC Playoff Final, to the conclusion of the 2020 USLC Playoff Final, scheduled for November 12–16, 2020.

    The 2021 New Mexico United season was the third season for New Mexico United in the USL Championship, the second-tier professional soccer league in the United States. This article covers the period from November 1, 2020, the day after the cancellation of the 2020 USL playoff final, to the conclusion of the 2021 USL playoff final. The USL Championship 2021 season began on April 24, and New Mexico United played its first competitive match of the season on May 1.

    The 2021 San Antonio FC season was the club's sixth season of existence. Including the San Antonio Thunder of the original NASL and the former San Antonio Scorpions of the modern NASL, it was the 12th season of professional soccer in San Antonio. The club played in the USL Championship, the second division of the United States soccer league system, and would have participated in the U.S. Open Cup, however the field of teams was reduced due to ongoing COVID-19 pandemic concerns and eventually cancelled.

    The 2021 Austin Bold FC season was the club's third season of existence and their third in the USL Championship, the second tier of American soccer.

    The 2022 New Mexico United season was the fourth season for New Mexico United in the USL Championship, the second-tier professional soccer league in the United States. This article covers the period from November 30, 2021 to the conclusion of the 2022 USL playoff final. The 2022 USL Championship season is set to begin on March 12, with New Mexico United set to play their first competitive game against Las Vegas Lights FC.

    The 2021 Rio Grande Valley FC Toros season was the 6th season for Rio Grande Valley FC Toros in USL Championship (USLC), the second-tier professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. This article covers the period from November 2, 2020, the day after the 2020 USLC Playoff Final, to the conclusion of the 2021 USLC Playoff Final, scheduled for November 28, 2021.

    References

    1. ↑ "New Mexico United Unveils Official Name, Branding" . Retrieved February 16, 2019.
    2. ↑ "USL Championship Unveils 2020 Schedule" . Retrieved February 1, 2020.
    3. ↑ USLChampionship com Staff (March 12, 2020). "USL Championship Temporarily Suspends Play". USL Championship. Retrieved March 12, 2020.
    4. ↑ USLSoccer com Staff (June 4, 2020). "USL Championship Announces July 11 Return". USL Championship. Retrieved July 27, 2020.
    5. ↑ Campbell, Jessica (July 2, 2020). "NEW MEXICO UNITED ANNOUNCES FULL RETURN-TO-PLAY SCHEDULE". New Mexico United. Retrieved July 27, 2020.
    6. ↑ "New Mexico United sparked excitement on and off the pitch". Albuquerque Journal. November 17, 2019. Retrieved February 8, 2020.
    7. ↑ "New Mexico United Announces Initial Roster Moves Ahead of 2020 Season". New Mexico United. October 30, 2019. Retrieved February 8, 2020.
    8. ↑ "New Mexico United Announces 14th Returning Player for 2020 Season". New Mexico United. November 8, 2019. Retrieved February 8, 2020.
    9. ↑ "New Mexico United Welcomes Back 15th First Year Player". New Mexico United. November 18, 2019. Retrieved February 8, 2020.
    10. 1 2 "Phoenix Rising FC on Twitter". Twitter. December 3, 2019. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    11. 1 2 Staff, New Mexico United (December 5, 2019). "New Mexico United to Welcome Former MLS and Liga MX Player to the 2020 Roster". New Mexico United. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    12. 1 2 Campbell, Jessica (December 19, 2020). "New Mexico United Signs 2019 USL Championship Winner to 2020 Roster". New Mexico United. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    13. 1 2 Campbell, Jessica (January 16, 2020). "THE 2020 NEW MEXICO UNITED ROSTER CONTINUES GROWING AHEAD OF TEAM'S SECOND SEASON". New Mexico United. Archived from the original on November 2, 2021. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    14. ↑ Staff (January 29, 2020). "2020 U.S. Open Cup Second Round Pairings and Host Scenarios". U.S. Soccer Official Website | USWNT & USMNT. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    15. 1 2 Campbell, Jessica (February 7, 2020). "NEW MEXICO UNITED'S 2020 ROSTER SEES ADDITION OF TALENTED MIDFIELDER". New Mexico United. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    16. ↑ Staff (February 7, 2020). "United to play intrasquad scrimmage". Albuquerque Journal. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    17. ↑ "Bengaluru FC sign Jamaican international Kevaughn Frater". BengaluruFC.com. February 12, 2020. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    18. ↑ Campbell, Jessica (February 13, 2020). "NEW MEXICO UNITED'S ROSTER CONTINUES TO GROW WITH THE ADDITION OF ROOKIE MIDFIELDER". New Mexico United. Archived from the original on June 24, 2020. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    19. ↑ "NewMexicoUTD on Twitter". Twitter. January 24, 2020. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    20. ↑ Allen, Courtney (February 21, 2020). "New Mexico United secures $4.1M for development of Sport and Cultural Center". KRQE News 13 Albuquerque - Santa Fe. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    21. ↑ "Austin Bold FC vs. New Mexico United - March 7, 2020 | USLChampionship.com". USL Championship. March 7, 2020. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    22. ↑ Staff (March 12, 2020). "USL Championship Temporarily Suspends Play". USL Championship. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    23. ↑ Staff (March 13, 2020). "U.S. Soccer Temporarily Suspends 2020 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Due to Covid-19 Outbreak". U.S. Soccer. Retrieved August 8, 2020.
    24. ↑ Staff (March 18, 2020). "USL Championship Extends Temporary Suspension of Season". USL Championship. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    25. 1 2 3 4 New Mexico United 2020 Season Schedule , retrieved August 8, 2020
    26. ↑ Staff (April 30, 2020). "United Soccer League Provides Update on 2020 Seasons". United Soccer League. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    27. ↑ USLChampionship com Staff (June 24, 2020). "USL Championship Unveils 2020 Season Format". USL Championship. Retrieved August 8, 2020.
    28. ↑ USLChampionship com Staff (June 25, 2020). "USL Championship Announces Western Conference Groups". USL Championship. Retrieved August 8, 2020.
    29. ↑ KOB 4 News Staff (July 2, 2020). "New Mexico United to begin 2020 schedule on July 11". KOB 4. Retrieved August 8, 2020.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
    30. ↑ R. Martinez, D. McKay (July 9, 2020). "Indoor dining, fall sports out; mask mandate more restrictive". Albuquerque Journal. Retrieved August 8, 2020.
    31. ↑ USLChampionship com Staff (July 13, 2020). "New Mexico's Muhammad Claims Fans' Choice Goal of the Week". USL Championship. Retrieved August 8, 2020.
    32. ↑ USLChampionship com Staff (July 27, 2020). "New Mexico's Sandoval Claims Championship Fans' Choice Goal of the Week". USL Championship. Retrieved August 8, 2020.
    33. 1 2 USLChampionship com Staff (July 28, 2020). "USL Championship Fans' Choice Save of the Week – Week 5". USL Championship. Retrieved August 8, 2020.
    34. ↑ Grammer, Geoff (July 18, 2020). "United is quiet about suspended player Padilla". Albuquerque Journal. Retrieved August 8, 2020.
    35. ↑ "NewMexicoUTD on Twitter". Twitter. July 25, 2020. Retrieved August 8, 2020.
    36. ↑ Staff (August 1, 2020). "OKC Energy FC vs. New Mexico United - August 1, 2020". USL Championship. Retrieved August 8, 2020.
    37. ↑ "Phoenix Rising FC vs. New Mexico United - August 8, 2020 | USLChampionship.com". www.uslchampionship.com. Retrieved August 10, 2020.
    38. ↑ "2020 Roster". New Mexico United. Retrieved January 22, 2020.
    39. ↑ "Phoenix Rising Roster". PHXRisingFC.com. Archived from the original on May 12, 2021. Retrieved July 14, 2020.
    40. ↑ "2020 Roster". www.newmexicoutd.com. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    41. 1 2 3 4 Staff, New Mexico United (October 30, 2019). "NEW MEXICO UNITED ANNOUNCES INITIAL ROSTER MOVES AHEAD OF 2020 SEASON". New Mexico United. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    42. ↑ "New Mexico Utd. on Twitter". Twitter. February 12, 2020. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    43. ↑ Staff (July 25, 2020). "New Mexico Utd. on Twitter". Twitter. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    44. ↑ USLChampionship com Staff (July 6, 2020). "Reno Acquires Beaury on Loan from New Mexico". USL Championship. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    45. ↑ Campbell, Jessica (January 31, 2020). "New Mexico United Welcomes Accomplished Defender to the 2020 Squad". New Mexico United. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    46. ↑ Campbell, Jessica (February 13, 2020). "NEW MEXICO UNITED'S ROSTER CONTINUES TO GROW WITH THE ADDITION OF ROOKIE MIDFIELDER". New Mexico United. Archived from the original on June 24, 2020. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    47. ↑ Campbell, Jessica (January 8, 2020). "New Mexico United welcomes Romeo Parkes to the 2020 Roster". New Mexico United. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    48. ↑ "Romeo Parkes returns Stateside on loan from Sligo Rovers". ExtraTime.ie. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
    49. ↑ "USL Championship Unveils 2020 Schedule" . Retrieved January 10, 2020.
    50. ↑ "New Mexico United Announces Full Return-To-Play Schedule". newmexicoutd.com. July 2, 2020. Retrieved July 10, 2020.
    51. ↑ "RGVFC Match Against New Mexico United Postponed". USLChampionship.com. September 21, 2020. Retrieved September 27, 2020.
    52. ↑ "Upon Restart, Clubs will be Divided into Eight Groups to Complete a 16-Game Regular Season". rsl.com. June 24, 2020. Retrieved July 19, 2020.
    53. ↑ USLChampionship com Staff (July 2, 2020). "USL Championship Unveils Revised 2020 Regular Season Schedule". USL Championship. Retrieved July 27, 2020.
    54. ↑ "New Mexico United Player Stats". www.uslchampionship.com. Retrieved August 6, 2020.
    This page is based on this Wikipedia article
    Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply.
    Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.