Press Release

Cabral makes his move permanent after spending the 2024 season on loan with Phoenix Rising FC

Phoenix Rising FC has signed forward Remi Cabral, pending league and federation approval and receipt of his P-1 Visa.

Cabral, 25, began his career with Paris Saint-Germain’s youth system before progressing through the French football ranks, including stints with FC Metz and Valenciennes FC. In 2021, he transitioned to the USL Championship, joining LA Galaxy II, where he played for two seasons. Cabral later moved to Colorado Rapids 2 in MLS NEXT Pro, scoring 19 goals in 22 matches during the 2023 season, earning the league’s Golden Boot award.

“Remi wanted to be a Phoenix Rising player, which speaks volumes. He’s a goal scorer and a true team player who will make a strong impact. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to see his best last season due to unforeseen circumstances, but my staff and I are excited to work with him and help him reach his full potential,” said Phoenix Rising Head Coach, Pa-Modou Kah.

Cabral spent the 2024 season on loan at Phoenix Rising from Colorado Rapids, where he became an integral part of the team, contributing seven goals in 22 appearances and helping the team continue its strong performance following the 2023 USL Championship title win. With his contract now secured, Cabral looks forward to continuing his journey with Phoenix Rising and playing a central role in the team’s future successes.

“Phoenix is in my heart forever. This city, this club, and these fans have given me so much more than football. When I lost my dad, the love and support from everyone here was unforgettable—it’s something my family and I will always hold close. Coming back to Phoenix feels like coming home,” said Cabral.

“My goal this season is to be the best version of myself every single day and to help this team succeed. We need to be more consistent and give the fans and the club the success they deserve. Personally, I’m aiming to be the best scorer I can be because I know it will drive us forward. Together, we can achieve something special,” Cabral added.

Remi Cabral: By the Numbers

• 19 goals in the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro season.
• 7 goals in 22 appearances for Phoenix Rising during the 2024 season.
• Earned the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro Golden Boot.
• Former youth player with Paris Saint-Germain and professional stints with FC Metz B and Valenciennes II in France.

Transaction: Phoenix Rising FC Signs Remi Cabral

1. Name: Remi Cabral
2. Position: Forward
3. DOB: July 10, 1999 (25)
4. Born: Paris, France
5. Former Club: Colorado Rapids
6. Height: 6-0
7. Weight: 174

USL Championship and League One clubs to compete in new interleague Cup format

The United Soccer League (USL) announced today the expansion of the USL Jägermeister Cup, uniting clubs from the USL Championship and League One in a groundbreaking interleague competition. The 2025 tournament represents a significant milestone for domestic soccer, as it marks the first time a U.S. soccer league has established its own interleague cup. 

Entering its second year after a successful launch exclusively with League One clubs last season, the 2025 USL Jägermeister Cup will feature all 38 professional men’s clubs competing in a World Cup-style tournament throughout the regular season. Adding more meaningful matches to the annual calendar, the USL Jägermeister Cup includes fan-first modifications to encourage attacking soccer, such as penalty shootouts to determine match winners during the group stage and goals scored as the first tiebreaker in the group standings. 

“We are thrilled to partner with Jägermeister to expand the competition to include both our men’s professional leagues and create more matches of consequence,” said USL President and Chief Soccer Officer Paul McDonough. “This new approach highlights the vision and commitment of our owners to explore innovative ways to adapt our structure, delivering a more compelling and entertaining format. This first-of-its-kind cup will give fans additional opportunities to support their teams and celebrate their communities in an exciting tournament.” 

The USL Jägermeister Cup will consist of six regional groups [see below], with six or seven teams assigned by league or conference affiliation per group. Each team will play four matches – two home, two away – in group play with home assignments being randomly drawn. The group stage kicks off April 26 and concludes the weekend of July 26. After the group stage, a draw will set the matchups for the single-elimination knockout rounds, which will begin three weeks later. The USL Jägermeister Cup will conclude with the Final on the weekend of Oct. 11. 

Phoenix Rising FC enters the 2025 USL Jägermeister Cup with a competitive edge, facing Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, El Paso Locomotive FC, San Antonio FC, Texoma FC, and Union Omaha in Group 2. The standout matchup is with their fierce rival, New Mexico United, with whom they’ve shared intense and thrilling encounters in the past. This rivalry adds excitement and anticipation to the group stage, as Phoenix Rising looks to continue its competitive history with New Mexico and make an impact in the tournament.

Heading into 2025, Phoenix Rising FC brings renewed energy, led by dynamic head coach Pa-Modou Kah and a mix of new and returning coaching talent. The team is also strengthening its roster with a diverse group of promising young players, including Damian Rivera, who tied for the most goals in the league last season as a substitute and was announced by the club yesterday. With their proven ability to compete against top-tier teams and a determination to build on last season’s successes, Phoenix Rising is poised to make a significant impact in this year’s tournament.

The Jägermeister brand has been a pioneer in sports business and soccer. In 1973, Jägermeister became the first company to place a logo on a Bundesliga club’s jersey with the sponsorship of Eintracht Braunschweig. Jägermeister is committed to crafting some of the best nights in sports and will be working with partners in local USL communities to host special events announced at a later date.  

In addition to the clubs and players being highlighted throughout the tournament, fans will also have their own shot at glory in the “Shot at Glory Bracket Challenge” which will launch ahead of the first matchday.  

More information about the USL Jägermeister Cup will be shared in the coming months leading up to the competition and throughout the tournament on our dedicated social media channels at USL Jägermeister Cup on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram. 

Join Phoenix Rising this season. Tickets are available at phxrisingfc.com/tickets.

Group 1	Group 2	Group 3	Group 4	Group 5	Group 6
AV Alta FC	Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC	Birmingham Legion FC	Detroit City FC	Charlotte Independence	Charleston Battery
Las Vegas Lights FC	El Paso Locomotive FC	Chattanooga Red Wolves SC	Hartford Athletic	Lexington SC	Greenville Triumph
Monterey Bay F.C.	New Mexico United	Forward Madison FC	Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC	Loudoun United FC	Miami FC
Oakland Roots SC	Phoenix Rising FC	Indy Eleven	Portland Hearts of Pine	Louisville City FC	FC Naples
Orange County SC	San Antonio FC	One Knoxville SC	Rhode Island FC	North Carolina FC	Tampa Bay Rowdies
Sacramento Republic FC	Texoma FC	FC Tulsa	Westchester SC	Richmond Kickers	Tormenta FC
Spokane Velocity FC	Union Omaha

About United Soccer League 

Founded in 1986, the United Soccer League (USL) is the largest and fastest-growing soccer organization in the United States, impacting more than 200 communities nationwide. The USL is the first and only organization to offer a comprehensive youth-to-professional pathway for both men and women under one ecosystem. This structure includes three men’s leagues: the USL Championship (Division II), USL League One (Division III), and USL League Two (pre-professional). The women’s pathway includes the top-tier USL Super League (Division I), which debuted in 2024, and USL W League, the country’s leading pre-professional women’s league. The USL also oversees USL Academy, a progressive talent development platform, and USL Youth, a premier national youth platform. 

With multi-year national and international media rights agreements across various platforms including CBS Sports, ESPN and Peacock, the USL is the most widely accessible soccer league in the country. 

About Jägermeister  

Introduced over 80 years ago by Curt Mast, Jägermeister is one of the world’s most successful liqueurs and available in 150 countries. The iconic taste of Jägermeister is not left to chance but is due to decades of experience, a safely guarded secret recipe consisting of 56 natural herbs, blossoms, roots and fruits including star anise, cardamom, cinnamon and ginger roots, and 383 quality checks. The botanical ingredients are extracted in their raw, unprocessed form through a gentle, weeks-long process of cold maceration to create Jägermeister’s base. The base, housed in more than 400 oak casks, then “breathes” for one full year, which is key to creating the complex and balanced flavor of Jägermeister’s legendary taste profile. Jägermeister is 35% Alc./Vol. and imported exclusively by Mast-Jägermeister US, Inc., White Plains, NY. Visit www.jagermeister.com and follow @JagermeisterUSA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. DRINK RESPONSIBLY. 

Rivera, a Costa Rican youth international, joins Phoenix Rising on a multi-year deal.

Phoenix Rising FC announces the signing of forward Damian Rivera to a multi-year contract, pending league and federation approval.

“Damian is a great person and a young, talented player,” said Phoenix Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah. “He’s ambitious and has the ability to excite our fans with his quality. My staff and I are looking forward to working with him and helping him develop into the player we believe he can become.”

Rivera, affectionately nicknamed “Tico,” brings a passion for soccer rooted in his family’s Costa Rican heritage. He credits community programs like Project GOAL, which combines soccer with educational support, for setting him on the path to professional success.

During his time with the Tampa Bay Rowdies, Rivera showcased his knack for delivering in crucial moments. A standout performance came against Louisville City FC, where he scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner with a well-timed volley, securing a vital 3-2 victory. His ability to influence tight matches with tactical awareness and energy made him an invaluable asset to the Rowdies’ attack.

“I’m thrilled to join Phoenix Rising,” said Rivera. “I love the city, and the club has a great reputation as an outstanding organization. I’m ready to contribute with goals and assists, and my focus is on helping the team win a championship. I can’t wait to bring my style to the pitch and connect with the fans.”

A product of the New England Revolution Academy, Rivera excelled at every level, making his Major League Soccer debut in 2020. He has since appeared in 21 MLS matches, scoring one goal. Rivera also holds impressive records at Revolution II, including 17 goals, three multi-goal games, and 52 shots on target in 54 appearances.

Rivera’s experience extends to the international stage, where he has represented Costa Rica’s U-23 Men’s National Team. Off the pitch, he continues to make an impact through the Common Goal program, donating 1% of his salary to support community initiatives.

Damian Rivera: By the Numbers

• 21 MLS appearances with New England Revolution
• 17 goals in 54 appearances for Revolution II
• Represented Costa Rica at the U-23 level
• 1x Supporters’ Shield winner with New England Revolution

Transaction: Phoenix Rising FC Signs Damian Rivera

• Name: Damian Esau Rivera Brown
• Position: Forward
• DOB: December 8, 2002 (21)
• Born: Cranston, Rhode Island
• Citizenship: United States (Costa Rican heritage)
• Former Club: New England Revolution
• Height: 5’10”
• Weight: 161 lbs

Led by Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah, the staff features a blend of returning talent and key new additions to drive the team forward.

Phoenix Rising FC has unveiled its coaching and technical staff for the 2025 season, led by Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah. The staff includes six core members returning to the club, along with the addition of an assistant coach and a sports performance coach.

Assistant Coach Vikram Virk joins Phoenix Rising FC after a transformative year as head coach of the University of Lethbridge Pronghorns men’s soccer program, where he led the team to back-to-back Canada West quarterfinals. Prior to that, Virk served under Kah at North Texas SC and Pacific FC and was head coach for Victoria Highlanders FC. He also held the position of League1 and U21 head coach with Cavalry FC.

“Vikram is a passionate and talented coach. He’s very knowledgeable and possesses a great understanding of the game,” said Kah. “Having worked with him at North Texas and Pacific FC—where we lifted the Canadian Premier League title—I know he’ll bring immense value to drive the team and staff forward.”

Joining the technical staff as the club’s sports performance coach is Devon Manifold. Manifold spent the last four years with Charlotte FC’s MLS Academy as Head of Performance and a Performance Specialist. Before his time at Charlotte FC, he worked with the Seattle Sounders as a Development Performance Coach. Holding a Master of Science in Education from the University of Miami, Manifold brings extensive experience at both the MLS and USL levels.

 “Devon is a great human and professional. His passion and drive to make players better every day will have a massive impact on the team,” said Kah.

Returning to the team next season are Assistant Coach Darnell King, Goalkeeper Coach Cory Robertson, Video Analyst Chris Standring, and Head Athletic Trainer Greg Spence. Robertson, the longest-serving member of the staff, enters his eleventh season with the franchise.

“Cory has been here from day one. He embodies Phoenix Rising—hardworking, professional, and always striving to improve himself and the players,” said Kah.

Kah also commended Assistant Coach Darnell King, a former captain who helped Phoenix secure its first championship title as a player. “Darnell is a young, talented coach who lifted Phoenix’s first championship as a player and captain. As he transitions further into coaching, his passion and knowledge will be instrumental to both players and staff.”

 “Our staff represents the best of what Phoenix Rising stands for—dedication, passion, and a relentless drive for excellence,” said Kah. “I am confident that with this team, we will continue to set the standard on and off the field.”

2025 Coaching & Technical Staff:

• Head Coach: Pa-Modou Kah
• Assistant Coach: Vikram Virk
• Assistant Coach: Darnell King
• Goalkeeper Coach: Cory Robertson
• Sports Performance Coach: Devon Manifold
• Video Analyst: Chris Standring
• Head Athletic Trainer: Greg Spence
• Team Administrator: Thomas Markey
• Equipment Manager: Jake Minder

Phoenix Rising FC retains core players and exercises key contract options as team prepares for 2025 Season under new Head Coach Pa Modou Kah

Phoenix Rising FC today announced its year-end roster moves ahead of the 2025 USL Championship season.

Twelve players have been retained to form the core of the 2025 squad, including Second Team All-League defender Pape Mar Boye, who led the team in clearances and duels in 2024. Additionally, the club exercised contract options for Emil Cuello, Gabi Torres, Ryan Flood, and JP Scearce. Contract options were declined for Alejandro Fuenmayor and Renzo Zambrano.

“I’m looking forward to working with this group of players we have returning for the 2025 season who have demonstrated their commitment, skill, and resilience, which will form the foundation of our success moving forward,” said Phoenix Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah. “Each one brings a unique quality to the team, and together, they embody the drive and passion that define Phoenix Rising. We’re building on something special here, and I believe this core group will set the standard for the culture and competitiveness we want to establish this upcoming season.”

Several players are out of contract, and loan agreements for others have expired, including Juan Carlos Azocar, Damien Barker John, Federico Varela, John Stenberg, Jose Hernandez, Laurence Wyke, Patrick Rakovsky, Remi Cabral, Rocco Rios Novo, and Tomas Angel.

“We want to extend our deepest gratitude to all the players who will not be returning for the 2025 season,” said Phoenix Rising President Bobby Dulle. “Their dedication, hard work, and contributions have been instrumental in the success of our club. As we move forward into the new season, we wish them all the best in their future endeavors and will continue to make thoughtful decisions with an eye toward building a strong team for the future.”

2025 Phoenix Rising FC Roster (as of Nov 19, 2024):

• Goalkeepers (0):
• Defenders (6): Edgardo Rito, Emil Cuello, Gabi Torres, Mohamed Traore, Pape Mar Boye, Ryan Flood
• Midfielders (3): Charlie Dennis, Giulio Doratiotto, JP Scearce
• Forwards (3): Darius Johnson, Dariusz Formella, Jearl Margaritha

Pa-Modou Kah joins Phoenix Rising following two seasons as an assistant coach with MLS’ Charlotte FC

Phoenix Rising FC has appointed Pa-Modou Kah as its new head coach. Kah joins Phoenix Rising from Major League Soccer’s Charlotte FC, where he spent the last two seasons as an assistant coach.

“I’m here because Phoenix Rising has the ambition and the drive to maintain its status as one of the top clubs in the USL Championship, with a commitment to bringing home more hardware and developing players,” said Pa-Modou Kah. “I want to thank Pablo, Bobby, and Brandon for this great opportunity and for trusting me to lead this team and project. I’m ready to lead this team, work with our players, and bring in the key pieces that match our style and intensity. I don’t come here lightly—I know the fans, I see the commitment in this community, and I’m here to push, build, and make Phoenix a club that consistently performs at the highest level.”

Kah is a retired Gambian-Norwegian professional soccer player, with experience both in European and North American soccer. As a player, Kah was a strong, versatile defender, able to play both in central defense and as a defensive midfielder. He began his playing career in Norway, then moved on to play in various leagues worldwide, including the Dutch Eredivisie with Roda JC, Qatar Stars League, and Major League Soccer (MLS) with the Vancouver Whitecaps and Portland Timbers. He was known for his leadership and physicality on the field.

Transitioning to coaching in 2017, Kah started as an assistant with the Vancouver Whitecaps (2017–2018) and later with FC Cincinnati in 2019. The Norwegian, who speaks seven different languages, then took on head coaching responsibilities at Pacific FC, where he led the team to their first Canadian Premier League (CPL) Championship in 2021, earning the CPL Coach of the Year title. During that season, Kah’s squad also advanced to the semifinals of the Canadian Championship, notably defeating MLS side Vancouver Whitecaps along the way.

In 2022, Kah led North Texas SC to the MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs with a 13-5-7 record in their debut season. He holds a UEFA A Coaching License.

“Pa’s breadth of experience as both a player and coach across global soccer makes him an incredible addition to Phoenix Rising,” said Club President Bobby Dulle. “In our conversations, it’s clear he is an intense, driven leader with a strong reputation for approachability and building genuine connections with and getting the most out of his players. Kah’s background gives him unique insight into creating unity within diverse rosters, and we’re confident his drive and tactical acumen will elevate our team both on and off the field.”

Career Highlights & Coaching Stats for Pa-Modou Kah:

• Playing Career: A versatile defender in top leagues worldwide, including MLS with the Portland Timbers and Vancouver Whitecaps, Kah made history as the first Black player to represent Norway’s national team, earning 10 caps.
• Coaching Record at Pacific FC: Led to first CPL Championship in 2021; Named CPL Coach of the Year.
• North Texas SC (MLS NEXT Pro): Guided the team to playoffs in its inaugural season, with a 13-5-7 record.
• UEFA A Coaching License
• Languages: Fluent in seven languages

Gomez stepped in as Interim Head Coach on June 29 following the departure of Danny Stone

With the conclusion of the 2024 USL Championship season, Phoenix Rising and Interim Head Coach Diego Gomez have parted ways.

“Diego stepped into a challenging role this season, and we’re incredibly grateful for his leadership and dedication to Phoenix Rising,” said Club President Bobby Dulle. “He brought stability to the team during a critical time, and his impact has been significant both on and off the field. After careful consideration, we believe the best path forward is to look externally for a head coach who can lead us into the next phase of success for this club. We have immense respect for Diego and appreciate all he’s done for Phoenix Rising.”

Gomez joined Phoenix Rising on February 6, 2024, as an assistant coach. A former goalkeeper, he spent his early years in the academy systems of Real Madrid (1998-2002) and FC Barcelona (2002-2010) and played professionally in Spain and Hong Kong from 2010 to 2013 before transitioning to a coaching career with AC Milan’s academy in Hong Kong in 2013.

From 2013 to 2017, Gomez advanced from youth coaching positions in Spain and China to become a director at David Villa’s DV7 Academy in Korea and Chula Vista, California. He then served as an academy coach, sporting director, and head coach for Queensboro FC II (2021-2022) before moving on to head coach roles with NISA teams Albion SC and Irvine Zeta (2023-2024).

Gomez was appointed Interim Head Coach on June 29, 2024, after Phoenix Rising relieved Head Coach Danny Stone of his duties. At the time, Phoenix Rising was in 9th place with 17 games remaining in the season. Gomez led the team to a 6-3-8 record, securing the eighth seed in the 2024 USL Championship playoffs.

He was named USL Championship’s Week 32 Coach of the Week on October 15, following Phoenix’s road victories over New Mexico (2-1) and Oakland Roots (1-0).

Phoenix Rising’s Pape Mar Boye, Charlie Dennis, and Dariusz Formella were all featured in the USL Championship Team of the Week for Week 29

The USL Championship announced the Team of the Week for Week 29 of the 2024 regular season on Tuesday, featuring Phoenix Rising’s Pape Mar Boye and Charlie Dennis, with Dariusz Formella named to the bench. All three players were recognized following Phoenix Rising’s 4-0 victory over San Antonio FC this past weekend.

Mar Boye opened the scoring for Phoenix Rising, rising high to head in a corner kick from Dennis at the far post, beating San Antonio goalkeeper Richard Sanchez. This marks Mar Boye’s second Team of the Week selection; he was also recognized in Week 20 after scoring his first goal for Phoenix Rising in a similar fashion.

Dennis added a goal of his own 20 minutes into the second half, receiving the ball at the top of the box and slotting it low into the corner for his first goal with Phoenix Rising and his second of the USL Championship season. This is his first Team of the Week selection while with Phoenix Rising.

Formella, who led the team in shots, scored Phoenix Rising’s second goal, connecting with a precise pass from Giuliano Doratiotto that split San Antonio’s defense. After driving into the box and cutting inside, Formella slotted a low shot through Sanchez’s legs for his fifth goal of the season. This is his second Team of the Week selection, with his first coming in Week 14.

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

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 29
GK – Kris Shakes, New Mexico United: Making only his second league appearance, Shakes posted a four-save shutout against Loudoun United FC with a Goals Prevented mark of -1.18 to help United seal a six-point week with a 1-0 win at Isotopes Park.

D – Carlos Guzman, Monterey Bay F.C.: The Mexican veteran had a stellar all-around game in Monterey Bay’s scoreless draw with Orange County SC as he completed 95 of 106 passes while winning 2 of 2 tackles and 2 of 2 aerial duels while also making two interceptions and six recoveries.

D – Pape Mar Boye, Phoenix Rising FC: The 20-year-old center back scored the opening goal in Rising’s 4-0 victory against San Antonio FC and was stellar otherwise, completing 49 of 52 passes and winning 6 of 6 aerial duels while making two clearances and three recoveries.

D – Sean Totsch, Louisville City FC: The veteran center back had a strong individual performance against Detroit City FC, winning 4 of 5 tackles, 11 of 12 ground duels and 6 of 8 aerial duels while also converting from the penalty spot for LouCity’s lone goal of the contest.

M – Shawn Smart, Las Vegas Lights FC: Smart recorded one assist and had two shots on target and two chances created while completing 54 of 61 passes, winning a game-high 5 of 5 tackles and 12 of 18 duels, and making four interceptions and six recoveries in a 2-1 win against Sacramento Republic FC.

M – Charlie Dennis, Phoenix Rising FC: The English midfielder recorded his first goal and assist since joining Rising to lead a 4-0 victory against San Antonio FC and completed 37 of 38 passes overall while notching three chances created and making four recoveries defensively.

M – Maxi Rodriguez, Detroit City FC: Rodriguez notched a goal and assist to lead Le Rouge in a 2-1 victory against Louisville City FC on Sunday afternoon, had two shots and two chances created, and completed 26 of 33 passes overall while winning one tackle and making nine recoveries defensively.

M – Chris Allan, Charleston Battery: The English midfielder was outstanding in central midfield, winning 11 of 11 ground duels and 6 of 8 tackles while making nine recoveries and two interceptions and completing 45 of 49 passes to help power the Battery’s 3-1 win against the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

F – Greg Hurst, New Mexico United: The Scottish forward bagged a pair of goals in United’s 3-1 victory against Sacramento Republic FC last Wednesday night as he recorded three shots on target and won 2 of 3 ground duels defensively.

F – Nick Markanich, Charleston Battery: Markanich scored a pair of goals to lead the Battery to a 3-1 victory against the Tampa Bay Rowdies, setting the league’s single-season goalscoring record in the process, and completed 26 of 33 passes while winning 8 of 10 duels and 4 of 6 tackles defensively.

F – Noah Fuson, Rhode Island FC: The 24-year-old began RIFC’s comeback 2-1 victory against FC Tulsa with a sharp finish with just over 20 minutes to play and had six shots and three chances created overall at Beirne Stadium.

Coach – Eric Quill, New Mexico United: Quill’s side earned a six-point week with victories against Sacramento Republic FC and Loudoun United that moved the side’s advantage at the top of the Western Conference to 12 points and put it within reach of clinching the No. 1 seed in the conference.

Bench: Colin Shutler (OC), Abdi Mohamed (NM), Markus Nakkim (OC), Mukwelle Akale (NM), Jojea Kwizera (RI), Collin Martin (NC), Dariusz Formella (PHX)

With eight saves and a shutout in Phoenix Rising’s road win over the weekend, Rios Novo was named to the USL Championship Team of the Week, Week 26.

The USL Championship announced the Team of the Week for Week 26 of the 2024 regular season on Tuesday, with Phoenix Rising goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo being recognized as the starting goalkeeper, earning the second-most votes.

Las Vegas Lights FC forward Khori Bennett was voted the Championship Player of the Week presented by Konami eFootball after recording a pair of goals in a historic 3-2 victory for the Lights against Orange County SC at Championship Soccer Stadium on Saturday night. Previously voted the Championship’s Player of the Month in June this season, the Jamaican led the Lights back from a two-goal deficit to claim victory, the first time in club history Las Vegas had won after trailing by two goals in a game. Bennett earned and then converted a penalty kick six minutes before halftime to halve the deficit before knocking home his second just past the hour-mark for his team-leading 11^th goal of the season.

Bennett earned 50 percent of the ballot to claim the award. Phoenix Rising FC goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo finished second on 25 percent after posting an eight-save shutout in Rising’s 1-0 victory on the road against Loudoun United FC, which moved the defending Championship title holders back above the playoff line.

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

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 26
GK – Rocco Ríos Novo, Phoenix Rising FC: The Argentine recorded an eight-save shutout in Rising’s 1-0 victory on the road against Loudoun United FC, posting a Goals Prevented mark of -1.66 as Rising moved back above the playoff line.

D – Duke Lacroix, Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC: The Haitian international scored in his side’s 4-1 victory against FC Tulsa on Sunday night and over two outings completed 63 of 70 passes and made 14 recoveries while winning 9 of 15 duels and 2 of 3 tackles.

D – Nicolas Cardona, Miami FC: The Puerto Rico international recorded the assist on Miami’s game-winning goal against Monterey Bay F.C. and completed 59 of 66 passes overall while recording four clearances, three recoveries and one tackle in the side’s second shutout of the season.

D – Matt Real, Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC: Real started both of Colorado Springs’ victories on the week, finding the net against FC Tulsa on Sunday night, and won 8 of 13 duels and 3 of 5 tackles defensively while completing 61 of 80 passes and notching a pair of chances created.

M – Ezra Armstrong, North Carolina FC: Armstrong recorded a pair of assists in North Carolina’s clash with Louisville City and completed 24 of 33 passes overall while winning 3 of 3 tackles and 5 of 6 duels defensively in a standout display in defeat.

M – Jonas Fjeldberg, Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC: The Norwegian scored twice in the opening six minutes against Memphis 901 FC on Wednesday night and over two wins for the Switchbacks completed 14 of 21 passes and had six shots and two chances created.

M – Stephen Turnbull, Rhode Island FC: Turnbull scored the opening goal in RIFC’s 2-0 victory against Birmingham Legion FC and had four shots overall in the contest while defensively he won 4 of 4 tackles and 8 of 10 duels.

M – Memo Diaz, Oakland Roots SC: Diaz notched the assist on Dom Dwyer’s game-winning goal against New Mexico United and had four chances created overall while completing 29 of 37 passes, winning 2 of 2 tackles and 3 of 4 ground duels, and recording five recoveries and three clearances.

F – Khori Bennett, Las Vegas Lights FC: The Jamaican scored a pair of goals, won a penalty kick, and recorded four shots on target while completing 9 of 11 passes to lead the Lights’ comeback 3-2 victory against Orange County SC.

F – Ethan Zubak, Orange County SC: Zubak scored twice in the opening 20 minutes for Orange County to break the club’s five-game scoreless drought, had four shots on target overall and two chances created while also winning 4 of 4 ground duels and 5 of 8 aerial duels in a stellar individual display.

F – Jansen Wilson, Louisville City FC: Wilson notched the first two-goal performance of his career in LouCity’s wild 6-4 victory against North Carolina FC, had another shot that resulted in an own goal and had one chance created.

Coach – James Chambers, Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC: Chambers’ side swept a pair of victories against Memphis 901 FC and FC Tulsa, scoring seven goals in the process as they remained in contention for a top-four finish in the Western Conference.

Bench: Khadim Ndiaye (MIA), Illal Osumanu (PIT), Ben Ofeimu (IND), J.C. Ngando (LV), Speedy Williams (COS), Wilson Harris (LOU), Oalex Anderson (NC)