Detroit City Wire

Detroit City FC secured a crucial victory in their playoff push with a 1-0 win over New Mexico United, thanks to Maxi Rodriguez's penalty conversion in the 20th minute.

Coming off a goalless draw against El Paso Locomotive FC, head coach Danny Dichio made only one change to the starting lineup. Rodriguez returned to replace Rhys Williams in midfield.

In the opening 15 minutes, Detroit struggled as New Mexico dominated possession but failed to create significant scoring opportunities. Carlos Saldaña made a key save in the 13th minute, thwarting an attack by coming out in front of the ball.

A counterattack in the 19th minute saw Laurent Kissiedou’s shot deflect off New Mexico defender Anthony Herbert’s hand, resulting in a penalty. Rodriguez converted calmly, marking his first goal since June 29.

Following the goal, Detroit controlled the match and maintained this tempo into halftime. It was their first lead at halftime since August 16 against Birmingham Legion FC.

The second half began with Detroit on defense as New Mexico controlled possession. Saldaña made another crucial save in the 58th minute from a shot at the top of the box.

Rhys Williams replaced Kissiedou in the 61st minute for Detroit's first substitution. Ben Morris nearly doubled Detroit’s lead three minutes later but was denied by a leaping save from New Mexico's goalkeeper.

Saldaña continued his stellar performance with another close-range save in the 68th minute. Ryan Williams substituted for Rodriguez in the 81st minute, followed by two more changes as Jeciel Cedeño and Matt Sheldon entered for Morris and Connor Rutz in the final minutes.

Sheldon received a yellow card during stoppage time, marking the only booking of the match.

This win marked Detroit City's first home victory since June and kept them two points ahead of fifth-place Indy Eleven. The match also saw Michael Bryant make his 100th appearance for Detroit City FC.

Detroit will face Louisville City FC next Sunday at Keyworth Stadium, with national coverage on ESPN2. Tickets are available at www.detcityfc.com/tickets.

Detroit City Starters: Carlos Saldaña, Alex Villanueva, Devon Amoo-Mensah, Stephen Carroll, Michael Bryant, James Murphy, Abdoulaye Diop, Maxi Rodriguez (81’), Laurent Kissiedou (61’), Connor Rutz (88’), Ben Morris (88’)

Detroit City Substitutes: Nate Steinwascher, Rhys Williams (61’), Ryan Williams (81’), Victor Bezerra, Matt Sheldon (88’), Daniel Espeleta, Jeciel Cedeño (88’)