PHOENIX (December 8, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC announced today it has re-signed defender Doueugui Mala for the 2018 season. Mala was a stalwart along the backline for the club, finishing the season third in clearances despite coming to Phoenix late in the season.

Mala signed with the club on August 10th and made his debut on August 12th in Phoenix Rising’s 1-1 draw with Rio Grande Valley FC. He appeared in ten matches, starting in nine of them in 2017. Mala hails from Adibjan, Ivory Coast and came to Phoenix Rising from Ivorian side Williamsville Athletic Club. He helped Williamsville finish second in the Ivory Coast’s top division, which qualified them for the 2018 CAF Champions League. Mala is the eighth player to re-sign with the club for 2018, following Alessandro Riggi, Carl Woszczynski, Chris Cortez, Amadou Dia, Kevon Lambert, Jason Johnson, and Gladson Awako.

The 2018 season is presented by Equality Health and Phoenix Rising season tickets are on sale now. Every season ticket purchase comes with season ticket benefits, which include a Phoenix Rising FC shop gift card, bring-a-friend vouchers, and a Didier Drogba bobblehead plus much more. Season tickets can be purchased online by going to www.PHXRisingFC.com or fans can speak with a Phoenix Rising FC account rep by calling 602.900.0083.

About Phoenix Rising FC
Phoenix Rising FC is the highest-level professional soccer franchise in Arizona’s history. Legendary Chelsea and Ivory Coast striker Didier Drogba, Kona Grill CEO Berke Bakay and an impressive collection of business leaders and international celebrities, own the club. Established in 2013, Phoenix Rising FC is one of 12 cities applying for Major League Soccer expansion. In October 2017, Phoenix Rising FC acquired Premier Development League (PDL) side FC Tucson. The club currently plays in the United Soccer League, the largest Division 2 professional league in the world. The 2018 Season is presented by Equality Health. For more information about the club, visit the team's website at PhxRisingFC.com. You can also follow the team on Facebook (PHXRisingFC), Twitter (@PHXRisingFC), Instagram (@PHXRisingFC), Snapchat (PHXRisingFC) and YouTube (PhoenixRisingFootballClub). For season tickets call (602.900.0083) or visit PHXRisingFC.com.