Did Phoenix Rising’s struggles continue into the 2026 season?
Yes, Phoenix Rising lost their 2026 season opener 2-1 against San Antonio FC, raising concerns about their performance as they begin a new year.
In the match held on March 8, 2026, Jorge Hernandez and Alex Crognale scored for San Antonio FC, while JP Scearce netted a goal from the penalty spot for Phoenix Rising. This defeat marks a continuation of Phoenix Rising’s challenges, which have been evident since early 2025 when they struggled with slow starts.
During the first half of the match, Phoenix Rising managed only two shots, none of which were on target, illustrating their difficulties in creating offensive opportunities. Coach Pa-Modou Kah expressed his frustration, stating, “We gave two away which I think didn’t help us, giving away goals too early in both halves.” This sentiment reflects the team’s ongoing issues with defensive lapses that have plagued them in recent matches.
JP Scearce, a key player for Phoenix, commented on the team’s commitment to the league, saying, “I think as players, we really care about this league.” However, the team’s performance in this opener raises questions about their ability to compete effectively this season.
Adding to the complexity of the match was a player protest organized by the USL Players Association, which may have impacted the team’s focus and performance. Details remain unconfirmed regarding whether this protest will affect future matches or the overall morale of the players.
As the season progresses, the status of players recovering from injuries remains uncertain, and their return could significantly influence the team’s performance. The upcoming matches will be crucial for Phoenix Rising as they seek to turn their fortunes around.
In a different arena, the NASCAR Straight Talk Wireless 500 is also scheduled for March 8, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. ET, with Ryan Blaney as a favorite to win, boasting odds of +340. This event highlights the diverse sporting landscape in Phoenix, where both soccer and NASCAR attract significant attention.
