Former Uganda Cranes midfielder Micheal Azira continued to impress in New Mexico United colours by scoring a very instrumental goal in the club’s 3-1 win over Colorado Springs Switchbacks on Saturday.
The 33-year-old who retired from the national team 88 days ago showed why he was a mainstay when he headed home United’s second goal – clearing their road to USL Championship victory.
There had been a 60 minute delay due to inclement weather in New Mexico but the game eventually got underway on a soggy field at Isotopes Park.
Sergio Rivas opened the scoring in the 16th minute with a rebound after Colorado Springs Switchbacks goalkeeper Sean Melvin saved from Kalen Ryden.
Game-winner in stoppage time for your first @NewMexicoUTD goal?!
— USL Championship (@USLChampionship) July 10, 2021
Micheal Azira#NMvCOS pic.twitter.com/yfWLpAty9V
The Switchbacks found an equalizer a few minutes later as Steven Echevarria played the ball to Hadji Barry in the penalty area who dribbled around a sliding defender before stabbing home.
New Mexico found a late winner when Azira headed home from a corner kick in the first minute of stoppage time. Ilija Ilic added another goal for New Mexico minutes later to extend the lead to 3-1.
“It was a great feeling,” said Azira. “Getting my first goal and being able to help my teammates in that situation, that was awesome.”