News

Avayevu finished with a pair of assists in Rising’s 4-4 draw against El Paso Locomotive on March 15

Phoenix Rising midfielder Hope Avayevu has been named to the USL Championship Team of the Week for Week 2, USL announced Tuesday. Avayevu created a team-high three chances, finishing his 90+6-minute shift with a pair of assists and a shot on goal as Rising drew El Paso Locomotive FC 4-4 on March 15.

Avayevu took a majority of Rising’s corner kicks against El Paso, placing his final attempt of the first half on the head of six-foot-five midfielder Noble Okello for the side’s first goal of the match. The Ghanaian’s second contribution came in the 80th minute when he picked up the ball at midfield and made a central run with the ball from the left channel before laying the ball into the path of Ihsan Sacko, who finished the chance to cut Rising’s deficit to 4-3.

The two assists mark Avayevu’s first goal contributions with Phoenix Rising. Arriving at the club in December 2024, the midfielder has started each of the club’s first two matches, playing 170 minutes and contributiong a pair of assists as well as a shot on goal.

Avayevu and Rising next take the field against 2024 USL Championship runner-up Rhode Island FC at 7:00 p.m. (PT) Saturday, March 22, at Phoenix Rising Stadium.

MATCHDAY 1: Phoenix Rising FC vs. FC Tulsa
Location: Phoenix Rising Stadium at 38th St./Washington
Time: 7:00pm (Gates open at 6:00 p.m.)
TV: Arizona Family’s (Channel 3)
Streaming: ESPN+ | Rising Radio | 1440, 1190 AM

**Stay Hydrated: Two unopened clear 20oz water bottles are allowed – per person**

GATES
The first 4,000 attendees can grab a rally towel in the northeast corner, presented by Carvana. Plus, as you exit, Circle K is hooking you up with a fuel coupon to save at the pump! The stadium gates will open 1 hour before kickoff at 6:00 p.m.

PREVIEW
The players are back. Preseason is over. Starting Saturday night—and every match through next fall—the points count for real. 

With a new head coach on the sidelines and a fresh wave of talent, Phoenix Rising FC kicks off its 2025 USL Championship campaign against FC Tulsa at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday at Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium. Four months after falling in the first round of the 2024 playoffs, the club returns with the same lofty goal it sets every season: winning a USL Championship title. 

“I think we’re where we need to be,” Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah said. “It’s the first game of the year. It’s always unknown territory what you’re going to face or what you’re going to get, but the preparation has been very good. The boys are ready, and we can’t wait for Saturday to get here.” 

PHOENIX RISING FC APP
Before you do anything, be sure to download the PRFC app. Not only is this your ticket into the game, it also has everything you’ll need on gameday, including stadium rules, maps, news, stats and more. Click the link below to get started.

LIGHT RAIL
Rising fans can catch Valley Metro Rail, with their fare covered at any of the 41 stations across the Valley, leaving any worries about traffic and parking behind. Match tickets will double as valid light rail fare on the day of the event four hours prior to the start of the event, through the end of the transit day.

TRANSPORTATION
We’ve got great guides on transit options, the quickest routes and the best parking at Phoenix Rising Stadium. Take the time to review your route and plan to leave early to take the stress out of your gameday commute.

FOOD TRUCK LINEUP
Starting on the north side of the stadium and moving counter clockwise: AZ Lemonade Stand, Maddie’s B’s Chicago Popcorn, Ohso Donuts, Bahama Bucks, Cheesesteaks & Cheesecakes, Mama Lola’s, Aioli Gourmet Burgers, Wood Fired Pizza, and Grab N Go.

STADIUM MAP

Phoenix Rising is unveiling a new revamped menu in 2025

The club is unveiling an all-new, revamped menu for 2025, featuring locally inspired flavors tailored to Phoenix Rising’s vibrant fanbase. In addition to the new menu items, the club has expanded its concession locations, including a brand-new grab-and-go station in the northeast concourse.

“The club has always offered a wide variety of food options at different price points, including local food trucks on match days. Now, we also feature food that carries our branding and reflects our community,” said Phoenix Rising President Bobby Dulle. “As we continue to be the best value and most family-friendly live entertainment option in the Valley, it was important to create a value menu with unique items at low prices for families attending games, while also streamlining transactions for convenience. We’re excited for fans to experience these upgrades in person this season.”

Season ticket members will also enjoy an extra perk this season—15% off select items at all bars and all food trucks during matches.

What’s New

Rising’s 4-3-3 Value Menu

Available for select games – May 31, August 2, and August 30 – enjoy concession items at an unbeatable price:

• $4 All Beef Hot Dog
• $3 12oz Modelo
• $3 16oz AZ Lemonade

Rising Nachos

• Fresh Baked Tortilla Chips served in a pizza box topped with Chicken Tinga, Roasted Red Peppers, Black Beans, Cilantro, Nacho Cheese, Sour Cream and sprinkled with hot Cheeto dust.
• Price: $18
• Location: Northeast Grab-N-Go

The Chorta

• Fresh Baked Bolillo, Vanilla Ice Cream, Cinnamon Sugar Churro, Blackberry, Raspberry Jam, and vanilla crumble.
• Price: $12
• Location: Northeast Grab-N-Go

Red and Black Rising Kettle Corn

• The Rising Blend – caramel kettle corn mixed with hot Cheeto kettle corn.
• Price: $12
• Location: All Container Bars, Maddie B’s Popcorn Tent, Northeast Grab-N-Go

Maddie B’s Chicago Popcorn

• Kettle Corn, Plain Butter, Jalapeno, Cheese, Caramel & Phoenix Rising Blend
• Price: $12
• Location: Maddie B’s Popcorn Tent

Phoenix Rising hosts FC Tulsa at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday in its home opener at Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium, kicking off its 2025 USL Championship campaign. 

The players are back. Preseason is over. Starting Saturday night—and every match through next fall—the points count for real. 

With a new head coach on the sidelines and a fresh wave of talent, Phoenix Rising FC kicks off its 2025 USL Championship campaign against FC Tulsa at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday at Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium. Four months after falling in the first round of the 2024 playoffs, the club returns with the same lofty goal it sets every season: winning a USL Championship title. 

“I think we’re where we need to be,” Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah said. “It’s the first game of the year. It’s always unknown territory what you’re going to face or what you’re going to get, but the preparation has been very good. The boys are ready, and we can’t wait for Saturday to get here.” 

GAMEDAY INFORMATION 

WHAT: Phoenix Rising FC vs. FC Tulsa 

WHEN: 7:00 p.m. (Mountain) 

WHERE: Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium 

HOW TO WATCH/LISTEN: 3TV (TV), ESPN+ (stream), KDUS 1440 AM (English), La Onda 1190 AM 

TICKETS: Ticketmaster 

FIRST LOOK UNDER PA 

Saturday marks Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah’s regular-season debut on the touchline. Appointed last November, the former player-turned-coach brings head coaching experience from Pacific FC in the Canadian Premier League and North Texas FC in MLS NEXT Pro, as well as assistant coaching experience at Charlotte FC in MLS. With just four months to implement his ideas and playing style, Kah has already brought in 11 new players, many under the age of 25, as he has moved quickly to shape the team ahead of the home opener. 

With both Kah and several new players joining the squad, this year’s preseason took on added importance. Rising faced new MLS side San Diego FC in a closed-door exhibition, competed against Los Angeles FC and Charlotte FC in the Coachella Valley Invitational, and hosted exhibition matches against Phoenix College and St. Louis CITY 2. 

The club wrapped up its preseason with an intrasquad scrimmage that showcased Kah’s vision of a free-flowing, high-energy playing style. In a 3-3 draw, Team Red and Team Black went toe-to-toe, with Mohamed Traore scoring from outside-the-box and Jearl Margaritha finding the back of the net after a slaloming run down the right wing before Team Black secured a victory in a penalty shootout. 

“We have a lot of good lads in the group now—lots of different cultures,” Margaritha said after the scrimmage. “Everybody is getting along well. There’s a good vibe and atmosphere in the group, and I think we’re making good steps toward the first game.” 

With a mix of first-team regulars and Academy products rotating in and out of the high-scoring affair, Kah witnessed from the sidelines something he has consistently touched on throughout his first months in charge: depth. 

While preseason doesn’t always predict what’s ahead in a grueling 34-match campaign, that night helped show that Rising has the depth and attacking pieces to compete with any team it comes up against. 

STARTING STRONG 

Phoenix Rising has a chance to take advantage of a friendly schedule to start the 2025 regular season. Two of its first three matches will be played at Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium—against FC Tulsa on Saturday and Rhode Island FC on March 22. Rhode Island, the 2024 USL Championship runners-up (12-7-15, 51 pts), presents an early marquee matchup. 

The club’s first three road games will see Phoenix Rising face El Paso Locomotive FC (March 15), Monterey Bay FC (March 29), and San Antonio FC (April 6)—all teams that finished below the playoff line in the USL Championship Western Conference last season. 

As teams fight for early positioning in the conference standings, Kah and his squad have a prime opportunity to build momentum before a challenging midseason stretch of road games in the summer. 

BRING ON FC TULSA 

Phoenix Rising kicks off its 2025 USL Championship season against FC Tulsa, a team that finished 10th in the Western Conference last season (9-14-11, 38 pts). Like Phoenix, Tulsa enters the new campaign with a fresh leader on the sidelines, as the club promoted former assistant Luke Spencer to head coach. 

On the field, FC Tulsa strengthened its midfield with the additions of Australian midfielder Giordano Colli, who most recently starred for A-League side Perth Glory, and Serbian-born midfielder Stefan Lukic, the 2019 NAIA Men’s Player of the Year at Oklahoma Wesleyan. Defensively, the club brought in Delentz Pierre, who made 23 appearances (18 starts) for a Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC team that won the 2024 USL Championship title, as well as Abdoulaye Cissoko, a former Seattle Sounders defender. Tulsa also added Taylor Calheira, an MLS NEXT Pro Best XI selection as a forward. 

“It’s always an unknown factor,” Kah said. “You haven’t played any games. The scouting isn’t where we want it to be. But we always focus on ourselves, the quality that we have and what we can do.” 

Rising is currently on an eight-match unbeaten run against FC Tulsa dating back to the 2017 season. Both teams played to a 3-3 draw in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on April 5, with Rising taking all three points in a 1-0 win on September 6 at home. 

Teams to display new kits in inaugural intrasquad scrimmage Friday night at Phoenix Rising FC Stadium 

After five preseason matches, Phoenix Rising FC’s final test before the 2025 USL Championship regular season will be an intrasquad showdown. 

Split into two sides—Team Red and Team Black—the squad will compete for El Trofeo de la Phoeniquera (The Trophy of the Phoeniquera) in the club’s first-ever intrasquad scrimmage, set to kick off at 7:00 p.m. MT on Friday at Phoenix Rising FC Stadium. Gates are set for 6:00 p.m. 

The scrimmage and kit reveal are free for Phoenix Rising season ticket members, while tickets for non-season ticket members are available on Ticketmaster. 

From the debut of new kits to a trophy on the line, here’s what to know ahead of Friday night: 

YOUTH VS. VETS

Friday’s match pits a youthful Team Black against a veteran-heavy Team Red. Assistant coach Darnell King will lead Team Red, while assistant Vikram Virk will manage Team Black from the touchline. 

Both coaches spoke to the media ahead of the match, sharing their perspectives on their team’s strengths. 

“I’m looking for [my team] to play with their experience,” King said. “I want them to own the game and dominate by using their brains.” 

While Team Red has the edge in experience, Virk believes his squad’s youth and energy could be an advantage, especially in the Arizona heat. 

“At the end of the day, we always say age doesn’t always matter,” Virk said. “It’s about the quality, and I think we have a strong team with the young guys. We’re going to push [Team Red] right to the end.” 

REVEALING A NEW LOOK

At 6:45 p.m., 15 minutes before kickoff, the club will unveil its new home and away kits for the 2025 USL Championship season. Team Red will debut the 2025 home kit, while Team Black will sport the new away look. Get discounts on apparel, hats, and accessories at the Just Sports tent (Jerseys will be available for purchase, but quantities may be limited or available for preorder). 

NEW TREATS

The club is unveiling an all-new, revamped menu for 2025, featuring locally inspired flavors tailored to Phoenix Rising’s vibrant fanbase, available for the first time this Friday night. In addition to the new menu items, the club has expanded its concession locations, including a brand-new grab-and-go station in the northeast concourse. 

Try the “18-Yard-Box” Rising Nachos, The “Black & Red” Chorta, Red and Black Rising Kettle Corn, and more from the 2025 season menu. 

LUCHANDO POR EL TROFEO DE LA PHOENIQUERA

The winning side of Friday’s match will claim the first trophy of the 2025 season: El Trofeo de la Phoeniquera. A member of Los Bandidos will present the trophy to the victorious team at the end of the night. 

Both coaches are eager to be the one lifting the season’s first trophy. At the very least, they anticipate a competitive and entertaining match before the regular-season grind begins. 

“Vik is a strong competitor,” King said. “He’s won every time he’s played, so I’m hoping to change that.” 

Find tickets for every 2025 regular season match available today at ticketmaster.com

Mark your calendars, Phoenix Rising fans! Tickets for the 2025 USL Championship regular season are on sale now. Don’t miss out on an exciting year filled with special events and can’t-miss giveaways.

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Saturday, March 8 – Home Opener + Todos Rojos

The 2025 season kicks off on March 8 with a night to remember! Phoenix Rising takes on FC Tulsa at Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium, just north of Sky Harbor Airport, and we need YOU to help pack the stands for this historic opener. Let’s make a statement and Defend the Fortress with a record-breaking crowd.

Wear red and be part of the Todos Rojos “Red Out” as we welcome our new head coach, fresh faces, and returning fan favorites to the pitch. Every fan will receive a red rally towel to wave throughout the match, with special activations throughout the night.

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Promotional Schedule

Saturday, March 22 – T-Shirt Giveaway
Kick off spring in style with our exclusive Phoenix Rising t-shirt giveaway! Be one of the first fans through the gates and score this limited-edition tee while cheering on Rising to victory.

Saturday, April 12 – International Night + Mini-Flag Giveaway
Celebrate the global game at International Night! Show your pride with a free mini-flag, representing the rich diversity of Rising’s fans and players. Don’t miss this night of culture, unity, and world-class soccer.

Saturday, April 19 – Family Day + Easter Egg Hunt
Bring the whole family for a day of fun! Join us for a special 1:00 p.m. matinee match and an Easter Egg Hunt before kickoff. It’s the perfect way to spend a spring afternoon together.

Saturday, May 17 – Out of School + Tote Giveaway
School’s out, and soccer’s in! Kick off summer with Phoenix Rising and grab your stylish tote bag to carry your Rising pride wherever you go.

Saturday, June 7 – Pride Match + Beach Towel Giveaway
Join us for a night of celebration and inclusion at our annual Pride Match! Be sure to snag a vibrant Phoenix Rising beach towel to brighten your summer days.

Friday, July 4 – Fireworks + Sunglasses Giveaway
Celebrate Independence Day with soccer, sunglasses, and spectacular fireworks! Catch all the action on the pitch and stick around for a dazzling post-match fireworks display.

Saturday, August 23 – Back to School + Lunchbox Giveaway
School’s back, but the fun’s not over! Score a Phoenix Rising lunchbox and gear up for the new school year while cheering on your favorite team.

Saturday, September 20 – Hispanic Heritage Night + Maracas Giveaway
Feel the rhythm and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Night! Get your own Phoenix Rising maracas and bring the energy to the stadium as we honor culture and community.

Saturday, September 27 – Superhero Night + Firefighter Helmet Giveaway
Unleash your inner hero on Superhero Night! Grab a firefighter helmet and celebrate the everyday heroes in our community.

Saturday, October 4 – Breast Cancer Awareness Night + Sunglasses Giveaway
Support a meaningful cause at Breast Cancer Awareness Night. Pick up a pair of pink-themed sunglasses and join us in raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research.

Saturday, October 18 – Fan Appreciation Night + T-Shirt Giveaway
We’re closing out the season with gratitude! Don’t miss Fan Appreciation Night, where every fan gets an exclusive Phoenix Rising t-shirt as a thank-you for your incredible support all year long.

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$1 Beer

Dollar Beer is back and better than ever! Don’t miss these unbeatable drink deals as we cheer on Phoenix Rising under the lights. Plan ahead, grab your tickets early, and secure your spot for these fan-favorite nights. Make it a night to remember by arranging a safe ride home in advance. Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 26, Friday, July 4, and Friday, September 5—and get ready to raise a cup to Rising!

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4-3-3 Value Menu

Phoenix Rising is bringing big value to match days with our 4-3-3 Value Menu! Enjoy special food and drink concession items at unbeatable low prices while watching the action unfold on the pitch. It’s the perfect way to fuel your game-day experience without breaking the bank. Don’t miss these wallet-friendly matchups on Saturday, May 31, Saturday, August 2, and Saturday, August 30—come hungry, cheer loudly, and rise together.

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PLAYOFFS: ROUND ONE

MATCHDAY 35: Phoenix Rising FC at New Mexico United
Watch Party: Walter Station – 4056 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Radio: Rising Radio
Streaming: CBS Sports Network

WATCH PARTY
Join us at Walter Station for the official Phoenix Rising Watch Party and experience the excitement firsthand as this is the first round of the USL Championship Playoffs.

Phoenix Rising travels to face New Mexico United, November 3rd. That match will be aired on CBS Sports Network at 6:00 p.m.

Walter Station will be having a happy hour going through the end of the match. It’s $2 off pints of beer and $5 off 60 oz pitchers of beer. 

Fans in attendance will have the opportunity to win a team signed flag, two large cooler bags and more!

MATCHDAY 34: Phoenix Rising FC at Louisville City FC
Watch Party: Walter Station – 4056 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
Time: 4:30 p.m.
TV: Arizona Family’s
Radio: Rising Radio
Streaming: ESPN+

WATCH PARTY
Join us at Walter Station for the official Phoenix Rising Watch Party and experience the excitement firsthand.

Phoenix Rising travels to face Louisville City FC, October 26th. That match will be aired on Arizona Family’s Channel 44 at 4:30 p.m.

Fans in attendance will have the opportunity to win a team signed flag, two large cooler bags and more!

Phoenix Rising earned six points at a vital time of the season under Gomez in Week 32

The USL Championship announced its Team of the Week for Week 32 of the 2024 regular season on Tuesday, with Diego Gomez named Coach of the Week after leading Phoenix Rising FC to a six-point week, including a 2-1 win over New Mexico and a 1-0 victory against the Oakland Roots.

After conceding an early penalty against their rival, Phoenix Rising rallied with two goals in New Mexico. Tomas Angel converted a penalty, and Charlie Dennis deflected a shot into the roof of the net, securing a go-ahead goal on the road. The win brought Rising within striking distance of clinching a playoff spot.

Rising capped off the week with a win against their Western Conference rival, the Oakland Roots. In that match, Emil Cuello assisted Tomas Angel’s second goal in as many games, delivering a cross that Angel headed in, earning Rising all three points.

The shutout victory was crucial for Rising, pushing them four points above the playoff line and into sixth place with two matches remaining. A win in their next match, or a San Antonio loss, will guarantee Rising’s second consecutive playoff appearance as they look to repeat last year’s success and bring another championship to Phoenix.

The Championship’s Player of the Week is selected by the USL National Media Panel, which includes representatives from each media market in the league.

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 32
GK – Pablo Sisniega, San Antonio FC: The Mexican shot-stopper recorded 15 saves across two games – including a season-high 11 saves against El Paso Locomotive FC on Wednesday night – to post a save percentage of 83.3 percent as SAFC emerged with four points to keep their playoff hopes alive.

D – Grayson Doody, Las Vegas Lights FC: Doody put in a stellar defensive display in the Lights’ 3-0 win against Birmingham Legion FC, winning 4 of 5 tackles and 9 of 12 ground duels while completing 45 of 52 passes and recording three chances created at Protective Stadium.

D – Ben Ofeimu, Indy Eleven: Ofeimu led Indy’s back line to a pair of shutouts over the week, recording a team-high 20 clearances while winning 9 of 14 duels and notching the assist on the side’s game-winning goal against Loudoun United FC on Tuesday night.

D – Jacob Erlandson, Loudoun United FC: Erlandson produced a pair of stellar performances for Loudoun across its two outings, winning 18 of 26 duels and recording seven clearances and nine recoveries while also completing 91 of 107 passes across 120 minutes of action.

M – Danny Barrera, Hartford Athletic: The veteran notched his second two-goal game in the USL Championship and added an assist in Hartford’s 4-3 victory against North Carolina FC while completing 22 of 29 passes and 2 of 4 crosses.

M – Amadou Dia, Louisville City FC: Dia proved instrumental in LouCity’s 2-1 comeback victory against the Tampa Bay Rowdies, winning a penalty kick that began the rally, while also putting in impressive work defensively, winning 6 of 7 tackles and 10 of 12 ground duels.

M – Marlon Hairston, Hartford Athletic: The veteran midfielder recorded a pair of assists and hit the woodwork with his lone shot of the game while also completing 35 of 38 passes and winning 3 of 3 tackles and 3 of 3 ground duels in Hartford’s 4-3 victory against North Carolina FC.

M – Coleman Gannon, Las Vegas Lights FC: The 21-year-old notched a goal and assist in the Lights’ 3-0 victory against Birmingham Legion FC and completed 14 of 18 passes while making one interception and four recoveries defensively.

F – Luis Solignac, San Antonio FC: The Argentine veteran recorded two goals and one assist across two appearances as SAFC claimed four points to keep its playoff bid alive, with Solignac notching a goal and assist in his side’s comeback victory against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC on Saturday night while recording seven shots and four shots on target for the week.

F – Evan Conway, North Carolina FC: Conway found the net in each of NCFC’s contests over the week as the side took victory in midweek against FC Tulsa, and overall notched 11 shots and six shots on target while going the full 90 minutes in both contests.

F – Ethan Zubak, Orange County SC: Zubak found the net as Orange County continued its recent undefeated streak with a 2-0 victory against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC last Wednesday night and was a physical presence in attack throughout the night, winning 4 of 5 aerial duels and 4 of 7 ground duels while completing 18 of 22 passes.

Coach – Diego Gomez, Phoenix Rising FC: Gomez’s side earned a six-point week with road victories against New Mexico United and Oakland Roots SC to move within reach of a return to the USL Championship Playoffs with two games to go in the regular season.

Bench: Hunter Sulte (IND), Shawn Smart (LV), Rece Buckmaster (SA), Mikey Maldonado (NC), Seth Casiple (OC), Joe Gyau (LV), Rodrigo Da Costa (NC)

MATCHDAY 32: Phoenix Rising FC at Oakland Roots SC
Watch Party: Walter Station – 4056 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
Time: 7:00 p.m.
TV: Arizona Family’s
Radio: Rising Radio
Streaming: ESPN+

WATCH PARTY
Join us at Walter Station for the official Phoenix Rising Watch Party and experience the excitement firsthand.

Phoenix Rising travels to face Oakland Roots SC, October 12th. That match will be aired on Arizona Family’s Channel 44 at 7:00 p.m.

Fans in attendance will have the opportunity to WIN FOUR (4) PREMIUM TERRACE TICKETS to the upcoming Phoenix Rising vs. Memphis 901 FC on October 19th.