corporate-logo
#UnitedForSoccer

Hartford Athletic

Home Archives for Home

Home

PREVIEW: Hartford Hosts Western Conference Leader FC Tulsa

Match Preview

Hartford Athletic will look to extend their five game undefeated streak against FC Tulsa, who currently sit at the top of the Western Conference, at home on Saturday. With Mamadou Dieng on fire and Michee Ngalina finding his form, this promises to be an exciting 90 minutes. 

HARTFORD ATHLETIC v. FC TULSA

WHEN: Saturday, August 16th, 7:00PM

WHERE: Trinity Health Stadium, Hartford, CT

PROMOTION: Daym Drops Night, Swords and Sorcery Night, Stroke Night pres. by Trinity Health of New England

TICKETS: Here

Team of the Week Lookin’ Real Green & Blue

Hartford Athletic was very well represented in Week 23’s USL Championship Team of the Week, with GK Antony Siaha and FW Mamadou Dieng earning recognition in the starting lineup and FW Michee Ngalina winning a spot on the bench. This comes after a huge six-point week for the Green & Blue. During the side’s two games, Siaha made seven saves, including a penalty that he had to stop not once but twice. This spectacular PK save earned the 6’5” goalkeeper a nomination to Save of the Week as well. Dieng earned his spot in the lineup after contributing three of Hartford’s six goals in the past two games. His Team of the Week selection comes after winning Player of the Week just seven days earlier – for Week 22 – showing that the 21-year-old forward is really starting to heat up. Michee Ngalina’s recognition is well-deserved after logging some crucial, but potentially unnoticed, contributions. He provided the assist for Junior Moreira’s winning goal against Miami. Also in that game, Ngalina drew the penalty kick that allowed Dieng to put the team up 1-0 and assisted on Dieng’s second goal just moments later. The crafty forward also created his fair share of problems for opposing goalkeepers, registering 10 shots across the two games. These three players will be looking to continue making an impact in this week’s home match.

Breaking Records Left and Right

Coming into Saturday’s game against FC Tulsa, the Boys in Green are on a four game undefeated streak, taking home 10 points across those matches and marking one of the best runs of form in club history. At the same time, Hartford’s offense has really started to heat up over the past two months, scoring 16 goals in the last nine games. Also making club history, Mamadou Dieng surpassed Hartford-legend Danny Barrera (18) to become Hartford’s All-Time Leading Goalscorer in the USL Championship Regular Season (20) with his two goal game against Birmingham Legion. He achieved this in just 48 regular season appearances for the Green & Blue. Right behind Dieng, Kyle Edwards moved into third place with 16 all-time goals after his late-game addition, also against Legion FC. 

Obalola Opens His Account

Adewale Obalola had a big game against Birmingham Legion FC, recording his first goal and his first assist in USL Championship play this season after coming into the game in the 65th minute. Early into stoppage time, the 19-year-old forward made his first mark on the match. Obalola controlled the ball on his chest and calmly laid it off to Kyle Edwards who was making a run into the box. Edwards fired it away to clinch his teammate’s first regular season assist. Just two minutes later, Obalola got a stoppage time goal of his own. Samuel Careaga provided the assist, charging towards goal with the ball and drawing all the defenders toward him. His selfless pass to a wide open Obalola allowed the Lagos, Nigeria native to get his first goal tally in the record book. His two contributions secured Hartford’s 4-1 win over Birmingham.

About the Opponent

FC Tulsa is having a stellar season, currently sitting at the top of the Western Conference with a record of 11-3-5. The Oklahoma side is well above the second place team, with 38 points to Sacramento Republic’s 30. This spectacular 2025 performance comes after finishing in 10th place last year and missing a playoff bid by just four points. Tulsa is on a particularly hot streak right now, not having lost a game since May 3 when they fell 2-1 to Orange County SC. This last time FC Tulsa took the field, it was a goal-laden 5-2 win over New Mexico United, who Hartford defeated 4-0 a few weeks ago. 

Players to Watch

Hartford – Antony Siaha, GK, 77

Facing off against a team that is ranked third in the league for goals scored (35), Antony Siaha will likely have his hands full with FC Tulsa’s attack. But the 6’5” goalkeeper has proved that he’s up to the task. With 49 regular season saves and six clean sheets, Siaha ranks fourth in the league for both stats. Beyond saving a penalty kick in last week’s match against Birmingham, the Tucson, Arizona native made a 67th minute save on an opportunity that could have turned the tide of the game had Legion FC scored. With Hartford up 2-0, Sebastian Tregarthen received the ball at the top of the box and fired off a quick and powerful shot that was headed towards the upper 90. Siaha reacted quickly to get his hands up and block Tregarthen’s attempt, keeping the Alabama side scoreless. With one more clean sheet against FC Tulsa, Siaha would move into a tie for second place with Las Vegas Lights keeper Raiko Arozarena. 

Tulsa – Alex Dalou, FW, 21

A big part of Tulsa’s offensive success this season has been Alex Dalou, particularly in the last couple games. The 5’8” forward scored in each of Tulsa’s Week 23 wins, despite logging only 83 minutes of game time. Against Monterey Bay, Dalou scored the opening goal of the match when his teammate intercepted a stray pass between the opponent’s centerbacks and fired off a shot. Monterey’s goalkeeper made the save but Dalou was there to finish the job. In Tulsa’s second game of the week, against New Mexico United, the West Bloomfield, Michigan native scored the last goal of the match this time. In the 83rd minute, Dalou hit a long-range shot that deflected off a New Mexico defender and into the back of the net. These goals mark two of his four total in USL Championship play and earned him a spot on the Team of the Week, alongside the three Hartford players.

Inside the Huddle

Join the Conversation

For live updates, follow along on Twitter using the hashtag #HFDvTUL

Hartford Athletic Adds Midfielder Owen Presthus on Loan from Columbus Crew

Hartford Athletic Adds Midfielder Owen Presthus on Loan from Columbus Crew

Hartford Athletic announced the addition of versatile and dynamic midfielder Owen Presthus on loan from MLS side Columbus Crew, pending league and federation approval. Presthus is the younger brother of Hartford Athletic defender TJ Presthus.

The 19-year-old was called up to the US U-20 National Team in January. He is known for his on-field awareness and ability to create goal scoring opportunities. He is an active midfielder that can get back to help on defense, while also making an impact offensively.

“We’re really excited to have Owen joining us. He has great awareness on the field and does a fantastic job creating chances in the final third.” said Hartford Athletic Coach Brendan Burke. “What stands out even more is his work ethic. He’s the kind of midfielder who’s just as committed to getting back and helping defensively as he is to pushing forward and making things happen. He’s going to bring a lot to this group, and we’re looking forward to seeing the impact he’ll have.”

The New Albany, Ohio native joined the Academy in 2017 at the age of 11. In 2023 he joined Columbus Crew 2 on an amateur agreement and made six appearances. Halfway through the 2024 season, the club signed Presthus to his first MLS NEXT Pro contract. Over two years with the club, he made 51 appearances, with 42 starts, including two appearances in Crew 2’s run to the semifinals of the MLS NEXT Pro playoffs in 2024.

In 2024, Presthus made his debut with the Crew First Team in a Leagues Cup Showcase match against Premier League side Aston Villa.

During his time with the club, Presthus contributed three goals, 22 shots on target, and nine assists.

On the international stage, Presthus has been called up to United States Youth National Team Training ID Camps in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2025.

Presthus comes from a family of soccer stars, with his brother TJ already making a big impact in his first year in the Green & Blue. Their father, Tom Presthus, was a goalkeeper at the professional level with Columbus Crew and DC United.

Owen will be available for selection on Saturday when Hartford hosts FC Tulsa at 7 PM at Trinity Health Stadium. Tickets are available at hartfordathletic.com.

RECAP: Hartford Climbs the Table with 4-1 Win over Birmingham

Hartford Athletic continued one of the best runs of form in club history in a 4-1 defeat of Birmingham Legion FC on the road on Saturday night. Mamadou Dieng netted his fourth career brace for the Green & Blue and his fifth goal in the past 3 games. Hartford has outscored its opponents 10-1 in the same span and have moved into the playoff places as of this writing.

In the 25th minute, Michee Ngalina put the ball across and connected with Mamadou Dieng who had his back to goal. As he attempted to turn and fire off a shot, Hartford’s #9 was fouled, drawing a penalty kick. Dieng took the PK and buried it in the back of the net. 

Off the restart, the Boys in Green doubled their lead. Junior Moreira won the ball and played it forward to Ngalina who was streaking down the left sideline. As all three Birmingham defenders rushed to shut him down, the 5’11” forward played the ball across the box to Dieng who was undefended in front of goal. Dieng had an easy one-on-one with the goalkeeper for his second of the match. Dieng now has nine goals in USL Championship play this season, just two shy of his single-season club record of 11 goals in 2024.

The rest of the half saw Hartford keep pressing towards goal, going into the locker room with eight shots and five on target to Legion FC’s 6 and 2, respectively. 

The home team started creating more chances in the second stanza. The most dangerous of which came in the 60th minute. First, Captain Tyler Pasher fired off a shot from the edge of the 18-yard box that glanced off the post and rebounded hard into play. The ball landed to Samuel Shashoua who took a touch towards goal but was brought down inside the box. 

Shashoua took the PK, directing it towards the bottom right corner, but GK Antony Siaha was not ready to give up his streak of clean sheets and made a spectacular diving save. However, the referee determined that Siaha had left his line early, bringing the ball back to the spot for Shashoua to retake. 

He went the other direction this time but Hartford’s goalkeeper was up to the challenge, making another clutch save and keeping Birmingham scoreless. 

The Boys in Green defended their lead for the next 30 minutes, even as Birmingham fought hard for a goal. Just as the game seemed to be nearing the end, stoppage time proved to be an exciting five minutes, with two goals for Hartford and one for the home team.

Early in stoppage time, substitutes Kyle Edwards and Adewale Obalola combined to score a third goal for the Green & Blue. Obalola won the ball in the middle of the field and quickly got it to Edwards who was making a run into the box. He fired the ball into the back of the net as the goalkeeper came charging out to stop him. Despite appearing mostly as a substitute this season, Edwards has now scored seven goals in USL Championship play, a number he reached in the 2023 season.

Before Birmingham could even figure out what had hit them, Hartford was back on the attack. This time Samuel Careaga got in on the action, dribbling towards goal and drawing two defenders. This left Obalola open on the right side, and Careaga made the selfless pass that left his teammate with the easy tap in goal to put Hartford up 4-0.

Seconds before the referee blew his whistle, Legion FC’s Enzo Martínez found the back of the net on a Sebastian Tregarthen cross, making the final score 4-1. 

WIth this win, the Boys in Green take home three crucial points and move up to seventh place in the Eastern Conference – one spot above the playoff line. 

Hartford Athletic is back at home on Saturday, August 16 at 7:00 PM against FC Tulsa who sit at the top of the Western Conference table. Tickets are available here.

FAST STATS

HARTFORDBIRMINGHAM
Shots1217
Shots On Target95
Corners87
Fouls1211
Offsides21
Possession39.5%60.5%
Passing Accuracy71.3%81.1%
Saves44

SCORING SUMMARY

HARTFORDBIRMINGHAM
27′ – Mamadou Dieng (PK)90+5′ – Enzo Martínez (Sebastian Tregarthen)
29′ – Mamadou Dieng (MIchee Ngalina)
90+1′ – Kyle Edwards (Adewale Obalola)
90+3′ – Adewale Obalola (Samuel Careaga)

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY

HARTFORDBIRMINGHAM
73′ – Emmanuel Samadia (Yellow)8′ – Maliek Howell (Yellow)
30′ – Sebastián Saucedo (Yellow)
45+3′ – Phanuel Kavita (Yellow)
48′ – Edwin Laszo (Yellow)
75′ – Jake Rufe (Yellow)

LINEUPS

HARTFORDBIRMINGHAM
77 (GK) Antony Siaha1 (GK) Matt Van Oekel
19 (DF) Emmanuel Samadia20 (DF) AJ Patterson
22 (DF) TJ Presthus3 (DF) Phanuel Kavita (Jake Rufe, 46′)
30 (DF) Adrián Diz Pe (Jordan Scarlett, 80′)24 (DF) Maliek Howell (Sam McIllhatton, 78′)
15 (DF) Joe Farrell (C)11 (MF) Dawson McCartney (Stephen Turnbull, 46′)
2 (DF) Sebastian Anderson17 (MF) Edwin Laszo (Tabort Etaka Preston, 78′)
94 (MF) Marlon Hairston (Beverly Makangila, 65′)19 (MF) Enzo Martínez
17 (MF) Jonathan Jiménez (Adewale Obalola, 65′)21 (MF) Sebastian Tregarthen
8 (MF) Junior Moreira (Samuel Careaga, 80′)14 (FW) Samuel Shashoua (Sebastián Saucedo, 78′)
9 (FW) Mamadou Dieng (Kyle Edwards, 71′)9 (FW) Ronaldo Damus
11 (FW) Michee Ngalina15 (FW) Tyler Pasher (C)

PREVIEW: Hartford Gears Up for Tough Match at Birmingham Legion

After another hard-fought midweek game, the Boys in Green travel to Alabama to play Birmingham Legion FC in a match that will be crucial in determining Eastern Conference standings going into Week 23 of the USL Championship.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC v. BIRMINGHAM LEGION FC

WHEN: Saturday, August 9th, 8:00PM

WHERE: Protective Stadium, Birmingham, AL

HOW TO WATCH: WCTX MyTV9, wtnh.com or ESPN+

Matchup History

With a very even 3-4-2 record against Birmingham Legion FC, a face off between the two sides always promises to be a feisty one. In fact, the Boys in Green already hosted the Alabama side earlier this year, coming away with a 1-0 win. In the 71st minute, Mamadou Dieng pressured the goalkeeper hard and fast, forcing him to make a turnover in his own box. Deshane Beckford was there to power the ball through the GK’s hands and into the back of the net. With a playoff spot within reach for both teams, this game promises to be particularly close. 

Clean Sheet King

With Wednesday’s 2-0 win over Miami FC, Antony Siaha earns his third clean sheet in a row in USL Championship play. The Green & Blue’s longest run of games without conceding a goal spanned 4 games in September of 2024. The 6’5” goalkeeper has gone 321 minutes without conceding a goal and has made 11 saves during that time. He made one particularly crucial save to maintain the clean sheet streak on Wednesday against Miami FC. The visiting side got the ball out wide to Matias Romero who put a cross into the box. Despite diving attempts by Hartford’s defense to clear the ball out of danger, Lucas Melano got on the end of it and redirected the ball towards goal. Siaha laid out his giant frame and was able to push it just wide of the post. This block marked his 250th career save.

Reinforcements Arrive

Wednesday’s match saw the first appearance in the Green & Blue for defender/midfielder Baboucarr Njie. The Gambia native is known for his composure, experience, and adaptability. Njie joins Hartford from Western Conference side Oakland Roots where he made 175 appearances, scored 9 goals, and provided 4 assists over a season and a half with the club. Coming into the game in the 85th minute, he didn’t get much of a chance to show the fans what he’s all about. But as the Boys in Green take the pitch just 72 hours after taking on Miami FC, having a well rested player who is ready to prove himself could be the difference between a win and a loss on Saturday. Fans, teammates and coaches will be excited to see what Njie can bring to the table.

About the Opponent

This week was a big one for changes in the standings. This included Hartford jumping ahead of Birmingham Legion, after the side drew 3-3 against Phoenix Rising FC last Saturday. Both teams have earned 19 points, but the Boys in Green draw ahead on goal differential. Birmingham holds a record of 4-8-7 this year, going 2-5-3 at home. In tournament play, Birmingham Legion clinched the only other Wild Card spot in the USL Jägermeister Cup. The Alabama side finished second in their group with 10 points after defeating FC Tulsa and USL 1 sides Forward Madison FC and Chattanooga Red Wolves SC, but drawing Indy Eleven. Birmingham will face off against Hartford rival Rhode Island FC on August 20 in the Knock Out Round.

Players to Watch 

Hartford – Jonathan Jiménez, MF, 17

The Norwalk native has certainly stepped into his role this year, earning more and more playing time as the season goes on. While not always a flashy player, Jiménez has demonstrated how important consistency is. Against Miami FC, the 5’10” midfielder completed 90% of his passes. Of those who saw significant playing time in the match, only Marlon Hairston was more accurate with a 90.7% pass completion rate. Jiménez also succeeded on two out of two dribbles and won six out of seven duels. He was also in the top four for possession won (4) and the bottom four for possession lost (3), further proving that he is a reliable presence on the field. Jiménez has also had moments of spectacular flashy play, scoring the opening goal of the game in Hartford 1-0 win over Detroit and assisting Michee Ngalina’s beautiful goal against New Mexico United. 

Birmingham – Ronaldo Damus, FW, #9

Just one goal ahead of Hartford’s Mamadou Dieng, Damus is ranked seventh in the league for goals scored (8). The Hinche, Haiti native brings substantial experience to the Birmingham lineup with seven years of pro soccer under his belt. Damus has been a powerful force for the Alabama side, leading the team in shots (38) and shots on target (14). He is also the only player to score with his right (4), his left (1) and his head (3), making him a versatile and effective forward that can wreak havoc on an opponent’s backline. He was named to Team of the Week earlier this year (Week 6) after scoring a brace in his side’s 3-1 defeat of El Paso Locomotive, including a key goal that leveled the score at one in the 30th minute.

Inside the Huddle 

Join the Conversation

For live updates, follow along on Twitter using the hashtag #HFDvBHM

RECAP: Athletic Extends Undefeated Streak to Three with 2-0 Win Over Miami

Hartford used a dominant second half performance to come away with a 2-0 victory over Miami FC on Wednesday night. With this win, the Green & Blue are on a three game undefeated streak in USL Championship play.

Just two minutes into the second 45, TJ Presthus hit a ball down the line which Michee Ngalina ran onto, getting a cross off just before he ran out of real estate on the endline. Junior Moreira made a front post run to beat his defender and GK Bill Hamid to the ball, burying it in the back of the net and putting Hartford up 1-0. This marked Moreira’s first goal this season.

The real turning point in the game came in the 70th minute when Miami’s Bolu Akinyode received a straight red card for fouling Ngalina on a goal scoring opportunity. 

Jonathan Jiménez and Mamadou Dieng combined in Hartford’s defensive third to get the ball out of danger and into Miami’s half. Ngalina showed off his blistering speed, running onto the ball and charging towards goal. As he entered the 18-yard box, one-on-one with the goalkeeper, Akinyode dragged Ngalina down from behind, drawing a penalty kick and getting himself ejected from the match. 

Dieng took the ensuing penalty, confidently placing it in the bottom right corner for his 7th goal of the season in USL Championship play and his 10th goal in all competitions. Dieng becomes the first player in club history to record 10 goals in back to back seasons.

Feeling the energy after going up 2-0 and playing with an extra man, Hartford continued to press towards goal. In the 82nd minute, Ngalina received another ball over the top and took a touch towards goal. He attempted a shot but couldn’t get much power behind it. Kyle Edwards was there to help the ball into the back of the net, but he was ruled offside and the goal did not count. 

The final minutes of the match turned chippy, but the Boys in Green remained calm and saw the game out through the final whistle, even creating some chances on goal in stoppage time. 

GK Antony Siaha also had a big game, earning his 250th career save early in the first half, on a Miami opportunity that could have turned the tide of the game.

This game also marked Siaha’s third clean sheet in a row in USL Championship play, totaling 321 minutes without conceding a goal. 
Hartford Athletic is back at home on Saturday, August 16 at 7:00PM against FC Tulsa. Tickets are available here.

FAST STATS

HARTFORDMIAMI
Shots1511
Shots On Target43
Corners43
Fouls1216
Offsides60
Possession43.3%56.7%
Passing Accuracy81.4%85.4%
Saves32

SCORING SUMMARY

HARTFORDMIAMI
47′ – Junior Moreira (Michee Ngalina)
73′ – Mamadou Dieng (PK)

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY

HARTFORDMIAMI
50′ – Mamadou Dieng (Yellow)63′ – Brandon Bent (Yellow)
70′ – Bolu Akinyode (Red)
78′ – Daltyn Knutson (Yellow)

LINEUPS

HARTFORDMIAMI
77 (GK) Antony Siaha28 (GK) Bill Hamid
19 (DF) Emmanuel Samadia (Baboucarr Njie, 85′)4 (DF) Nicolas Cardona (Brandon Brent, 60′)
22 (DF) TJ Presthus21 (DF) Bolu Akinyode
30 (DF) Adrián Diz Pe13 (DF) Daltyn Knutson
15 (DF) Joe Farrell (C)2 (DF) Jonathan Ricketts
2 (DF) Sebastian Anderson22 (MF) Franceso Celeste (Deian Veron, 60′)
94 (MF) Marlon Hairston (Beverly Makangila, 74′)8 (MF) Matias Romero
17 (MF) Jonathan Jiménez (Samuel Careaga, 74′)26 (MF) Lucas Melano (Tobias Zarate, 79′)
8 (MF) Junior Moreira (Deshane Beckford, 78′)10 (MF) Sebastian Blanco (Gerald Diaz, 79′)
9 (FW) Mamadou Dieng (Kyle Edwards, 78′)30 (MF) Cristian Vazquez (Allen Gavilanes, 60′)
11 (FW) Michee Ngalina9 (FW) Francisco Bonfiglio

PREVIEW: Hartford Looks to Move Into Playoff Positions Against Miami

Athletic comes into this midweek game against Miami FC after a 4-0 thumping of New Mexico United last Wednesday, followed by a weekend off to rest and recharge. The Boys in Green have been gaining momentum in the month of July, earning 10 points from five matches across all competitions. This matchup promises to be a highly-contested one as both teams look to move up in the table and move into playoff contention. Trinity Health Stadium will be the site of Touch a Truck Night, along with fan-favorite $2 beers, $1 hot dogs.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC v. MIAMI FC

WHEN: Wednesday, August 6th, 7:30PM

WHERE: Trinity Health Stadium, Hartford, CT

PROMOTION: Touch a Truck pres. by Work Zone Safety & $2 Beer/$1 Hot Dogs pres. by Modelo

TICKETS: Here

Press High, Counter Fast

Hartford’s dominant win over New Mexico United was a lesson in counterattacking play. While only maintaining 26.8% of possession, the Green & Blue posted a 2.86 xG – and netted four goals – by catching the visiting side in transition. The Boys in Green came out ready to press New Mexico and disrupt their normal style of play. Many of Athletic’s chances came because United gave up the ball under pressure and Hartford was able to take advantage of the moment in transition. Dieng’s first goal was only possible because Marlon Hairston forced a turnover in the midfield. The final goal of the game came when Kyle Edwards picked off a pass in midfield and took off at speed. Illustrating this perfectly, Hartford posted 15 interceptions to New Mexico’s six and 53 recoveries to their 44. The Green & Blue then wasted no time getting the ball up the field with 68.3% of passes going forward and 21.8% of them being long balls. This high-energy press will be key to securing three points against Miami FC.

Pivotal Week in Play Off Push

This week’s matches will be crucial in Hartford’s hunt for a playoff spot. Despite sitting four places below the playoff line, the Boys in Green are only three points away from earning a spot in the post-season. Additionally, both opponents that Hartford will face sit within those three points, meaning that the results of these games will greatly impact each team’s position in the table. Also benefitting the Green & Blue is the fact that the side has at least one game in hand over everyone in the Eastern Conference, so they have more opportunities to bring home points than other clubs do at this point in the season.

We Asked, Michee Delivered

Last week’s player to watch stepped up to the plate and put on a stellar performance against New Mexico United. Michee Ngalina was a disruptive force, setting the press with Mamadou Dieng and making it difficult for the visiting team to play out of the back. Offensively, the 5’11” forward was key in creating chaos that the New Mexico backline was unable to handle, with three shots, five final third entries, and three of four successful dribbles. He scored the third goal of the match, a beautiful one-touch finish that curled into the side netting, safely out of reach of the goalkeeper. In the prematch interviews, Ngalina promised that fans would see his back flip goal celebration soon, and he delivered.

About the Opponent 

Miami FC currently sits in ninth place in the Eastern Conference, one spot below the playoff line. The Florida side has a record of 5-8-4 in USL Championship regular season play. However, over the last five games, Miami has struggled to find a win, taking home three draws and two losses. Miami FC and Hartford Athletic have faced off 10 times since 2021, with a very even record of results for both sides. The Green & Blue have come home with four wins, one draw, and five losses. At Trinity Health Stadium, Hartford has a record of 2-2-1 against Miami FC. Last year’s home game was a close 3-2 win that saw Deshane Beckford score the opening goal on a fast break transition that caught the goalkeeper way out of his box.

Players to Watch

Hartford – Mamadou Dieng, FW, #9

Hartford’s speedy and hardworking #9 is starting to find his stride this season, making him an absolute joy to watch. He has scored four goals in the past five league games, including two in last week’s dominant 4-0 defeat of New Mexico United. Dieng’s pace and technical ability were on full display as he beat his defender with a double stepover for the first goal and picked off a pass back to the goalkeeper for his second. This performance earned the 6’2 forward USL Championship Player of the Week honors. With these two goals, Dieng also became Hartford’s All-Time Leading Goal Scorer (19) in just his second season with the Green & Blue. Defensively, Momo is crucial to starting Hartford’s press, using his speed to put pressure on opponents’ defenders.

Miami – Francisco Bonfiglio, FW, #9

Francisco Bonfiglio has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with in his first season in the league. The Argentinian forward is tied with Charleston’s Cal Jennings and Loudoun’s Abdellatif Aboukoura for first in the league in goals scored (11). Four of these came during the month of July when Bonfiglio averaged a goal every 89 minutes. This run of goals earned Miami’s #9 a USL Championship Player of the Month Nomination, alongside Hartford’s Dieng. Bonfiglio has demonstrated his versatility in front of goal, scoring with his right (8), his left (1) and his head (2). He also leads the team across several stats, including shots (38), shots on target (25), conversion rate (28.9%), duels (212) and aerial duels (98).

Inside the Huddle

Join the Conversation

For live updates, follow along on Twitter using the hashtag #HFDvMIA

RECAP: Dieng Becomes Club’s All-Time Leading Scorer in 4-0 Drubbing of New Mexico

Hartford Athletic put on a dazzling display of the side’s speed and athleticism and Mamadou Dieng recorded his third brace for Hartford in a 4-0 win over New Mexico United. Dieng’s second goal made him the club’s all-time leader in goals scored across all competitions (19). 

From the get-go, the Boys in Green demonstrated their pace and ability to sneak up on defenders. Within the first two minutes, Dieng almost intercepted a New Mexico bass pack to their goalkeeper, foreshadowing some of what was to come in the rest of the match. It was clear that the team’s game plan was to get the ball in behind New Mexico’s backline and challenge Gk Alex Tambakis.

Hartford also surpassed the Albuquerque side in physicality and strength.

In the 17th minute, Marlon Hairston won the ball off a New Mexico defender and got it to Dieng. The crafty forward did a double step over and beat his defender to fire off a powerful right-footed shot that found the bottom left corner, putting Hartford up 1-0.

Before New Mexico even had time to react, Dieng successfully intercepted a back pass to the goalkeeper. With just Tambakis left to beat, he took a touch around the goalkeeper’s outstretched leg and walked the ball into the goal. 

Just two minutes later, Dieng stood strong as his defender tried to push him off the ball. The ball was poked away but luckily it fell at the feet of Jonathan Jiménez. He played it across the top of the box to Michee Ngalina, who hit a one touch beautifully curving ball into the back of the net, giving Athletic a 3-0 lead. 

Just before halftime, Dieng had the chance to secure himself a hattrick. Emmanuel Samadia played the ball in the air over the New Mexico backline for Hartford’s #9 to attack. All alone, Dieng attempted to loft it over the goalkeeper with a one-touch shot, but the ball glanced off the post and was collected by Tambakis.

In the second half, the pace of the game settled down substantially, although Hartford continued to look for Dieng in behind. 

In the 70th minute, the Senegalese forward had another look at goal. Michee Ngalina intercepted a New Mexico pass and played a ball forward that split two defenders and coincided perfectly with Dieng’s run into the box. One on one with the GK once again, he tried to slot the ball into the back of the net but hit the post for the second time. 

Not content with the current scoreline, Kyle Edwards came into the game in the 79th minute and made an impact three minutes later. He picked off a pass around midfield and took off at speed. Again showing that Hartford’s pace and athleticism were too much for New Mexico, he drove down the middle, beat two defenders on the dribble and slotted the ball away, securing three points for the home side.  Edwards’s goal is his sixth in USL Championship play, tying him with Dieng for the team lead in goals on the season.

Hartford is back at home on Wednesday, August 6th at 7:30 PM against The Miami FC. Tickets are available here.

FAST STATS

HARTFORDNEW MEXICO
Shots1422
Shots On Target65
Corners49
Fouls48
Offsides60
Possession26.5%73.5%
Passing Accuracy71.4%87.5%
Saves52

SCORING SUMMARY

HARTFORDNEW MEXICO
17′ – Mamadou Dieng (Marlon Hairston)
24′ – Mamadou Dieng
26′ – Michee Ngalina (Jonathan Jiménez)
82′ – Kyle Edwards

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY

HARTFORDNEW MEXICO
87′ – Christopher Gloster (Yellow)

LINEUPS

HARTFORDNEW MEXICO
77 (GK) Antony Siaha1 (GK) Alex Tambakis
19 (DF) Emmanuel Samadia3 (DF) Christopher Gloster
22 (DF) TJ Presthus12 (DF) Talen Maples
30 (DF) Adrián Diz Pe19 (DF) Zico Bailey
15 (DF) Joe Farrell (C)24 (DF) Jaylin Lindsey (William Seymore, 60′)
2 (DF) Sebastian Anderson6 (MF) Gedion Zelalem (Marlon Vargas, 46′)
94 (MF) Marlon Hairston (Samuel Careaga, 68′)15 (MF) Ousman Jabang
17 (MF) Jonathan Jiménez (Beverly Makangila, 63′)21 (MF) Valentin Noel (Tomas Pondeca, 67′)
8 (MF) Junior Moreira 9 (FW) Fernando (Dayonn Harris, 60′)
9 (FW) Mamadou Dieng (Kyle Edwards, 79′)11 (FW) Mukwelle Akale
11 (FW) Michee Ngalina17 (FW) Greg Hurst (Thomas Amang, 46′)

PREVIEW: Hartford Hosts Western Conference Side New Mexico United

Just three days after fighting Rhode Island FC to a 2-2 draw and winning the ensuing penalty kick shootout, Hartford Athletic hosts Western Conference side New Mexico United for a USL Championship regular season match. At the midpoint of the season, the Boys in Green will be looking to pick up some crucial points and move into playoff contention. It will also be Grow the Trades Night, which includes hands-on demonstrations and informational sessions from local trade organizations.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC v. NEW MEXICO UNITED

WHEN: Wednesday, July 30th, 8:00PM

WHERE: Trinity Health Stadium, Hartford, CT

PROMOTION: Grow the Trades pres. by DEWALT

TICKETS: Here

Gaining Momentum

Over the last month, the Boys in Green have taken home seven points from four games, along with clinching a spot in the quarterfinals of the Jägermeister Cup. The run started with a dominant 3-0 win over third place Loudoun United back in June. The Green & Blue then went on to defeat Detroit City FC 2-1 on the road, before fighting Rhode Island to a 0-0 draw on their home turf. Even Hartford’s only loss during this time frame was an unlucky late goal match that saw Athletic post an xG of 2.09. The pieces seem to be falling in place for Brendan Burke’s side and Wednesday night’s match will be a chance to continue this momentum. 

Fast Starts Fuel Success

The key to this week’s game will be starting off strong and scoring early. The Green & Blue are 4-1-2 when they score the opening goal of the match. Four of these goals came within the first 20 minutes, including one from Sebastian Anderson inside 90 seconds against Detroit City FC. Also against DCFC a week later, Jonathan Jiménez netted his first goal of the season within five minutes. If Hartford can net one early and knock the wind out of New Mexico United, they’ll be in a good position to bring home all three points.

Short Week, Big Test

Midweek matches are always tough. Players don’t have as much time to recover as they normally would before taking the pitch again. But Hartford’s versatility in the lineup makes this less of an issue for the Green & Blue. The last time Hartford played a game with little rest, Head Coach Brendan Burke was not afraid to give Junior Moreira and Adrián Diz Pe a spot in the starting XI, two players who had seen minimal playing time up until then. They both stepped up and Athletic came away with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Rhode Island FC. Diz Pe then scored a crucial late goal when Hartford faced off against Rhode Island again a week later. As the Boys in Green head into Wednesday’s match after a tough battle on the road, the depth of the side’s bench will be crucial in defending Fortress Hartford and securing three points.

About the Opponent

New Mexico United currently sits in third place in the Western Conference, with 25 points on 15 games played. They hold a record of 8-6-1 overall but are 1-3-1 in the last five games. The visiting team is coming off a successful season last year. New Mexico won the Western Conference and advanced to the playoffs, where they fell 1-0 to Las Vegas Lights FC in the semifinal. In the USL Jägermeister Cup, United finished second in their group, with one win and three draws, two in which they won the penalty kick shootout. Their eight points was one point shy of the nine Hartford recorded to clinch the last wild card spot.

Players to Watch

Hartford – Michee Ngalina, FW, #11

The Democratic Republic of the Congo native is a key part of the Green & Blue’s attack, taking players on and firing off shots. Despite recording only one goal and one assist this season, Ngalina is ranked third on the team for shots (13) and shots on target (9). In 2024, the 5’11” forward led the team with five assists and was second on the squad for goals (8) and shots on target (27). By running at defenders on the dribble, Ngalina creates chaos for the opponent’s backline, often drawing fouls in dangerous areas and creating scoring opportunities for the Green & Blue. He is in the top five for fouls won, but the bottom three for fouls conceded, showing he is disciplined on the other side of the ball. Ngalina plays in front of Emmanuel Samadia on the left and often sets the outside midfielder up to get dangerous crosses into the box.

New Mexico – Luiz Fernando, MF, #9

While United’s goals are distributed among many players, the Brazilian midfielder leads the team with four. Fernando is also in the top three for shots (19), shots on target (9), key passes (13) and crosses (20).The 27-year-old was nominated for the June USL Player of the Month after recording +1.44 goals added – a stat that measures how all of the player’s touches contribute to the team’s chance of scoring OR conceding – in three appearances. While Fernando did win the fan vote, he did not win the overall Player of the Month title. Fernando is a goal-scoring left-winger that the Boys in Green will need to keep an eye on. 

Inside the Huddle

Join the Conversation

For live updates, follow along on Twitter using the hashtag #HFDvNM

PREVIEW: Hartford Heads Back to Rhode Island for Key Jägermeister Cup Contest

With a hard-fought and closely-contested first leg of El Clamico last weekend, the regional rivalry continues to heat up. The two teams face off again this Saturday with one crucial difference. Hartford and Rhode Island will fight for the top spot in their USL Jägermeister Cup group. On the road again, the Boys in Green will be fighting hard to bring home three crucial points.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC vs. RHODE ISLAND FC

WHEN: Saturday, July 26th, 7:00 PM

WHERE: Tidewater Landing Stadium, Pawtucket, RI

HOW TO WATCH: WCTX MyTV9, wtnh.com or ESPN+

Close But No Cigar

The Green & Blue have had no problem getting in front of goal this year but are often thwarted when it comes to putting the ball in the back of the net. With a 21.45 expected goal mark on the season, Hartford ranks fourth in the league. However, Athletic’s 15 goals scored puts the side in 21st place overall. This shows that the Boys in Green can create dangerous goal-scoring opportunities, they just need to capitalize on these chances more often.

The Wall

GK Antony Siaha has been coming up big recently, earning himself league recognition two weeks in a row. After a three-save match against Rhode Island FC, the Tucson, Arizona native was nominated for Save of the Week. The stop that earned him a spot in the poll came in the 69th minute. After coming off the bench just 10 minutes earlier, RIFC’s JJ Williams found a wide open Albert Dikwa at the back post. The 6’1” forward fired off a one-touch shot but Siaha came out strong and made a diving kick-save to keep the ball out of the goal. The Hartford goalkeeper is just six stopped shots away from reaching 250 regular season saves.

As It Stands

Going into the final group stage match of the Jägermeister Cup, Rhode Island FC leads the group with nine points after three wins. Hartford Athletic sits close behind them with seven points, from two wins and a draw. The winner of this weekend’s matchup will earn an automatic spot in the knockout round of the tournament. The loser would still have a chance at advancing via a wild card draw, but that would depend on the results of other Cup games.

About the Opponent

As Rhode Island FC was new to the USL Championship last year, this is only their second season in the league. Surprisingly for a new club, RIFC finished in fifth place in the Eastern Conference Standings in 2024, clinching a spot in the playoffs and making a shocking run to the USL Final. In that game, the expansion team fell to the Colorado Springs Switchbacks 3-0. After last week’s 0-0 draw, RIFC still sits in 10th place but with a slightly-improved record of 4-8-5.

Players to Watch

Hartford – Emmanuel Samadia, MF, #19

We called Emmanual Samadia the “Cross Boss” last week and during the game against Rhode Island FC, he delivered. With nine crosses in the match, the Sierra Leone native lived up to his nickname and was responsible for almost a third of Hartford’s penalty area entries (30). As the Boys in Green face off against Rhode Island FC again this weekend, Samadia will be a key player to watch. Against RIFC, the 5’6” midfielder attempted four dribbles, three of which were successful. In one instance, Samadia demonstrated complete control of the ball, getting past two defenders with some fancy footwork and then playing the ball forward to start Hartford’s attack. His speed on the flanks mean he is a pivotal part of both Hartford’s offense and defense. Athletic’s #19 also contributed 13 duels and won possession from Rhode Island seven times in last week’s match. In this weekend’s match, Samadia can be counted on to get the ball across the goal for his teammates to score, while also hustling back to help on defense.

Rhode Island – JJ Williams, FW, #9

Despite earning limited minutes as he returns from an injury, JJ Williams has had an immediate impact every time he steps on the field for Rhode Island FC and will be a player to watch in Saturday’s matchup. With the Montgomery, Alabama native on the pitch, RIFC has won 12 of 31 games (about 39%). However, without Williams on the field, Rhode Island has only won 4 of 19 games, or about 21%. The side’s goals per game ratio is also much higher with the 6’4” forward in the lineup, scoring 1.7 goals/game with him and 0.8 goals/game without him. After entering the match in the 59th minute last Saturday, he created three big chances for the home team. He also fired off two shots, both of which were on target. One of these came in the 90+6 minute, on a cross from Noah Fuson. Williams clambered over two Hartford defenders to get his head on the end of it. His attempt was headed towards goal but Siaha made a clutch save. Williams will be a dangerous presence on the pitch this Saturday, and the Boys in Green will need to work hard to shut him down.

Inside the Huddle

Join the Conversation

For live updates, follow along on Twitter using the hashtag #HFDvRI

Presented By