ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico United extended its unbeaten streak to seven matches on Saturday night, playing to a second consecutive 3–3 draw, this time against Oakland Roots SC at Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park. While the result earned United a valuable point, players and coaches alike voiced frustration over missed opportunities with just one match remaining in the regular season.
Midfielder Mukwelle Akale opened the scoring for United in the 13th minute, firing a sharp shot past the keeper to give the home side an early 1–0 lead. Oakland equalized three minutes later via penalty, but United regained control after an own goal in the 19th minute pushed them back ahead 2–1.
Just before halftime, Akale was brought down in the box, setting up defender Talen Maples to convert the penalty and give United a 3–1 advantage. Oakland struck back with a second penalty in the 40th minute and capped off the comeback with an 82nd-minute equalizer.
Despite several late pushes from both sides, the scoreline held until the final whistle.
“We’ve scored six goals in the last two games and walked away with two points,” said Head Coach Dennis Sanchez. “That’s nowhere near good enough.”
Saturday’s result brings United’s record to 13-10-6 (45 pts), locking the club into playoff contention but leaving homefield advantage in the balance. United will close the regular season on Friday, October 24, hosting Rhode Island FC in a critical match with postseason seeding implications.
“Treat it like a playoff game. Simple,” said Akale. “When you score three goals at home, it should be a win.”
Sanchez echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need for sharper execution and a return to the club’s identity. “The game was too open. We were loose with the ball in key moments, not secure in transition. We need to get back to who we are.”
United now faces a high-stakes showdown with Rhode Island, a club still fighting for its own playoff berth. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. MT on Friday, where United will aim to end the regular season on a high note — and avoid what Sanchez warned could be “a quick trip” in the playoffs if performances don’t tighten up.