El Paso Locomotive FC ends playoff run with 2-1 semifinal loss

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KVIA) -- El Paso Locomotive FC’s playoff run came to an end Saturday night with a 2-1 loss to Sacramento Republic FC in the USL Championship Western Conference Semifinals.

Sacramento opened the scoring in the 14th minute, but the Locos responded seven minutes later. Alex Méndez found the back of the net in the 21st minute to even the match at 1-1 heading into halftime.

Sacramento regained the lead in the second half when Michelle Benítez scored in the 57th minute.

El Paso pushed for an equalizer late, and Méndez nearly delivered in the closing seconds of stoppage time. However, his shot struck the post as Sacramento held on for the 2-1 victory.

The Locos finished the night with 60% possession and 16 shots, including six on target, but couldn’t find a second goal.

Méndez finished the season with 10 goals across all competitions, second-most on the team.

Despite the loss, El Paso reached the Western Conference Semifinals for just the third time in club history. It was the team’s first appearance in the round since the 2020 season.

The loss brings Locomotive FC’s 2026 season to a close.