Memphis 901 FC vs. Phoenix Rising Preview

It really is quite astonishing just how close the Western Conference of the USL Championship is at the moment. A mere seven points separates first place from eighth place. And shockingly, just four points are between that eighth and final playoff spot and second place. It’s safe to say that there is little margin for error. That is the backdrop of a 5th vs 6th place matchup between Memphis 901 FC and the Phoenix Rising.

Memphis 901 FC might not be as hot as they were a month ago, but they are still on a very good run of form. In fact, they are unbeaten in nine of their last ten league games dating all the way back to the end of April. They recently had a three-game homestand in which they secured five points with two draws and a win: 1-1 against the Colorado Springs Switchbacks, 2-2 in a thriller with expansion side Rhode Island FC, and then a 2-1 win against Western Conference-leading New Mexico United. Their most recent outing was an Elvis rivalry road trip out to Las Vegas to take on the Lights. The Beale Street Boys beat the Lights at AutoZone Park to open the season, but despite a Goal of the Week from Bruno Lapa, only came away with a draw after being called for a penalty less than ten minutes from full-time.

Given that they are just one point behind Memphis 901 FC in the standings, it shouldn’t be a surprise that Phoenix Rising are having a similar run of form as the Beale Street Boys. The Rising are unbeaten in eight of their last nine league games. And just like 901 FC, they have three draws and a win in their last four games (with a defeat coming just prior). But they are the reigning USL champions, after going on a miracle run at the end of last season. The man to watch out for is Remi Cabral who has bagged five goals on the season. Goals have been in short supply for the Rising of late, however, as they have been held to one or fewer goals four times in their last five games.

When, Where

Date: Friday, June 28, 2024

Venue: AutoZone Park

City: Memphis, Tennessee

Time: 7:30pm CT

TV: WMC 5.3, ESPN+

Tickets: Memphis 901 FC vs. Phoenix Rising tickets

All-Time Series

Series tied 1-1-0

Last Meeting

Date: Saturday, July 1, 2023

Venue: Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium

City: Phoenix, Arizona

Result: Memphis 901 FC 0-6 Phoenix Rising

Conference Standing

Memphis 901 FC: 5th in West (22pts)

Phoenix Rising: 6th in West (21pts)

Next Game

Date: Saturday, July 6, 2024

Competition: USL Regular season

Math-Up: Memphis 901 FC @ Orange County SC

Venue: Championship Soccer Stadium

City: Irvine, CA

Time: 9pm CT

TV: WMC 5.3, ESPN+