Did Phoenix Rising’s struggles continue into the 2026 season?
In their season opener on March 8, 2026, Phoenix Rising faced a challenging match against San Antonio FC, ultimately losing 2-1. This raises the question: Are the struggles that plagued Phoenix Rising in the previous season still affecting their performance?
The answer appears to be yes, as Phoenix Rising had a lackluster start to the match, managing only two shots in the first half, none of which were on target. San Antonio FC capitalized on this slow start, with Jorge Hernandez and Alex Crognale scoring two goals, putting Phoenix in a difficult position early in the game. JP Scearce managed to score from the penalty spot for Phoenix, but it was not enough to secure a comeback.
Head coach Pa-Modou Kah expressed his disappointment post-match, stating, “We gave two away which I think didn’t help us, giving away goals too early in both halves.” This sentiment reflects ongoing concerns about the team’s defensive capabilities, which have been a recurring issue since early 2025.
The match also featured a player protest organized by the USL Players Association, highlighting the players’ concerns regarding league conditions. JP Scearce commented, “I think as players, we really care about this league,” indicating that the players are invested in improving their circumstances.
As the season progresses, the impact of this protest on future matches remains uncertain. Additionally, the USL Players Association has authorized a strike if necessary, which could further complicate the league’s operations and the teams’ performances.
Meanwhile, in the world of motorsports, the NASCAR Straight Talk Wireless 500 is set to take place on the same day, with Ryan Blaney as a favorite to win, boasting odds of +340. Chase Elliott, known for his strong performances at Phoenix, has 11 top-10 finishes at the track, including a win in 2020. Tyler Reddick has also shown impressive form this season, winning all three races so far.
As Phoenix Rising looks to rebound from this loss, they will need to address their offensive and defensive strategies to avoid a repeat of their previous season’s struggles. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the potential impact of the player protest and whether the opening weekend of games will proceed as planned.