New Mexico United Suffers an Unlikely Defeat by Las Vegas Lights

New Mexico United could not hold its own against Las Vegas Lights this Saturday. Read the full story in our article.

US Open Cup: New Mexico United Loses to Las Vegas Lights

Las Vegas, NV — After a thrilling match against the MLS Colorado Rapids, New Mexico United lost to Las Vegas Lights this Saturday.

The game started rather promising for NMU; however, the visiting team lost control and took some major losses. With the final score of 5–1, New Mexico United suffered a surprising defeat in the scorching heat of downtown Vegas.

Before the match, NMU was predicted to be the 2nd highest-scoring team in the league. But the tables turned on Saturday during the 32nd minute. Namely, Javan Torre of Lights FC scored the first goal with a sudden left-footed shot. After eight minutes, another goal by Christian Hernandez during a penalty kick rebound made the NMU lose control on the field.

The second half started with a 2–0 score for the home team, but NMU took another hit after the 3rd minute when Preston Tabort Etaka scored the 3rd goal. After some substitutes and missed attempts, New Mexico United managed to score their first and only goal just two minutes before the game stopped.

Unfortunately, Lights FC scored two more goals in the last two minutes and another one during stoppage time. Around 8,000 soccer fans watched the game in the Lights FC’s home venue at Cashman Field.

After the devastating 5–1 loss for NMU, the next stop for the team is in Texas. On Wednesday, June 19, United will play against FC Dallas. It will be the 16th round of the 2019 U.S. Open Cup.