JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (DA) — Jürgen Locadia helped Miami FC make a winning start in the 2026 Prinx Tires USL Cup, assisting Arney Rocha’s ninth-minute goal in a 1-0 victory over Sporting JAX at Hodges Stadium.
The Curaçao forward created the decisive moment early, setting up Rocha for a right-footed finish from the center of the box. Miami then protected the lead through full time, despite Sporting JAX carrying more possession and pressure over the 90 minutes.
Sporting JAX finished with 57.5% possession, won seven corners and pushed late for an equalizer. Jordan Rossiter came closest in the 75th minute, hitting the bar with a header from the right side of the six-yard box after a Harvey Neville cross.
Locadia remained active throughout the match for Miami. He had multiple chances, including a right-footed effort saved in the 35th minute, a left-footed shot saved in the 85th and another attempt shortly after that missed just high. He was replaced by Mathieu Ndongo in the 85th minute.
Miami goalkeeper Felipe Rodriguez kept the clean sheet in place, including a first-half save on Dida Armstrong in the 34th minute. Miami also dealt with late pressure after Sporting JAX won corners in the 74th, 76th, 79th and 90+2nd minutes.
Curaçao goalkeeper Eloy Room did not travel for Miami’s cup opener. A source with knowledge told Deporte Awe that Room got the weekend off and did not travel with the team, but will be back for the next match.
The match was Miami’s first game in Group 7 of the USL Cup, a regional group that also includes FC Naples, Sarasota Paradise, Sporting JAX and the Tampa Bay Rowdies. The tournament features all 43 teams across the USL Championship and League One, with seven group winners and one wild card advancing to the knockout stage.
Miami FC will continue group play Wednesday against FC Naples at South Dade Kia Field at Pitbull Stadium.