FC Tucson Faces Off Against League Leaders Redlands in Exciting Home Opener

FC Tucson is initiating its 2025 season this week with a home match against Redlands FC at Kino North Stadium on Saturday. After a successful tune-up at the beginning of the month, the team is eager to build on its momentum.

The squad commenced its USL League 2 schedule with a decisive 5-2 victory over Stars FC in Surprise. Although the win secured the team a brief position at the top of the Southwest Division table, they were soon displaced by City SC, which overwhelmed Coachella SC 10-1 over the weekend.

Coach Sebastian Pineda expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, particularly given their relative inexperience with one another. “We had some guys that came in late, so they are getting used to everything we do,” Pineda noted. He highlighted the importance of cohesion, attributing the early equalizing goal from Stars in the 21st minute to fatigue and the need for adaptation.

Alexis Ledoux, a key player, regained the lead for FC Tucson just before halftime. Pineda emphasized Ledoux’s high-level experience and his active role, stating, “He’s a guy that is very active without the ball and can progress the ball forward.” Ledoux, who has been recognized as a “Player to Watch” by the league, was substituted in the 70th minute to manage his workload.

Looking ahead, FC Tucson faces a familiar rival in Redlands FC. Since Redlands joined the league in 2023, FC Tucson has amassed a strong record against them, with only a single draw marking their encounters. Despite this, Pineda acknowledged Redlands’ competitiveness. “I’m expecting a very talented team from what I saw from the guys that they recruited,” he said.

Redlands FC won both of their opening matches against Stars FC, making them the only team with a full six points thus far. The upcoming match is expected to be a clash of teams still finding their rhythm. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. on Saturday at Kino North Stadium.