SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Sacramento Republic FC will begin the pursuit of its second league title as it plays host to New Mexico United in the Western Conference Quarterfinals of the 2023 USL Championship Playoffs on Saturday night for the third meeting between the clubs in the postseason. Kickoff at Heart Health Park is set for 10 p.m. ET. Here’s what you need to know.

How They Got Here

Sacramento Republic FC (18-6-10, 64pts) – Republic FC built on their success a season ago to claim top spot in the Western Conference for a second time in club history, using a strong start to the season to navigate through an injury-hit middle portion before ending the season on a three-game winning streak. Republic FC took 21 of 27 points in a nine-game undefeated streak to start the season that included impressive wins against Louisville City FC and Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, but the side was unable to keep pace with Eastern Conference leader Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC as players such as Rodrigo Lopez, Jack Gurr and Luis Felipe Fernandes were sidelined. With the best defensive record in the league, however, the side saw goalkeeper Danny Vitiello claim the Golden Glove, while Russell Cicerone reached 15 goals in his first season with the club.

New Mexico United (13-14-7, 46pts) – New Mexico United went through a season of changes, including the departure of Head Coach Zach Prince and appointment of Eric Quill as his replacement, but surged into the postseason with a late run of good form to clinch a spot on the final weekend of the season. United has been led by El Salvador international Amando Moreno, who notched 10 goals for the second time in his career in the Championship while also finishing tied for the team lead with five assists. After three consecutive wins to close the regular season, New Mexico will be hoping its form continues into the playoffs against the top seed in the conference.

All-Time Series

The all-time regular season series is all square at 2-2-2 after New Mexico took a win at home and a draw on the road this season. Republic FC has won both prior playoff meetings, however, advancing in 2019 and a season ago.

DraftKings Odds

Sacramento Republic FC -175, New Mexico United +370, Draw +310

Opta Says

10 – Sacramento Republic FC allowed only 10 first-half goals in the regular season, the fewest of any team in the league, while scoring 28 times, good for fourth in the league.

7 – New Mexico United both scored seven goals from corner kicks and allowed seven goals from corner kicks in the regular season.

Players to Watch

Sacramento Republic FC – Jack Gurr: The Scottish right back was a strong two-way threat throughout the season recording five goals, six assists and ranking tied for fourth in the league with 61 chances created.

New Mexico United – Justin Portillo: The former Championship title winner with Real Monarchs SLC has been key in the center of midfield this season and notched 54 chances created while scoring five goals and five assists.

Discipline Report

Sacramento Republic FC – No suspensions

New Mexico United – No suspensions