​El Paso Locomotive FC suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of New Mexico United in their final Prinx Tires USL Cup match on Saturday, July 11, at Southwest University Park. The opening 45 minutes produced chances for both teams, but standout goalkeeper performances from each side kept the scoreline level as the first half ended without a goal.
The match remained tight for most of the second half, but New Mexico United found the breakthrough in the 85th minute when Joseph Quiah slipped a shot past El Paso goalkeeper Blake Gillingham. Just four minutes later, Zico Bailey delivered a cross through the box that connected with a United teammate, doubling the lead and solidifying a 2-0 cushion for New Mexico. The two-goal gap proved insurmountable, and the visitors walked away with the win.
Attendance at Southwest University Park was recorded at 5,011. Notably, the last time New Mexico United kept El Paso scoreless was on March 22, 2025, in Albuquerque, underscoring the Monsoon of opportunities that El Paso created in this matchup. The Locomotive finished with 18 shots, marking their fifth consecutive game against New Mexico United with 12 or more shots. Historically, El Paso has produced more than 18 shots against United only on four other occasions, highlighting the volume of offensive pressure the Locomotive have generated in this rivalry.
The night also featured notable debuts for El Paso. Blake Gillingham started in goal, earning his first appearance for the Locos, while Cristo Fernández entered the game as a substitute in the 79th minute, replacing Rubio Rubín. Both players contributed to the squad’s efforts as they integrated into the team’s competitive dynamic.
Looking ahead, El Paso Locomotive FC will return to action on Saturday, July 18, when they travel to Tulsa, Oklahoma to face FC Tulsa. The kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. MT, as the Locomotive look to bounce back from Saturday’s result and continue their campaign in the USL. This update comes from Nexstar Media, Inc., and is current through July 11, 2026. For ongoing coverage of the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, visit KTSM 9 News.