San Diego FC vs LA Galaxy
Photography by: Lorena Barros
San Diego FC (SDFC) marked their arrival to Major League Soccer with authority, defeating reigning champions LA Galaxy 2-0 at Dignity Health Sports Park in their inaugural match on Sunday night. Winger Anders Dreyer made history, scoring both goals to deliver a memorable debut for the expansion team.
The evening began as a celebration for the Galaxy, who unveiled their banner for a record sixth MLS Cup title clinched in 2024. However, the night quickly soured for the hosts, while San Diego asserted their dominance in the game. Facing a team missing five starters from last year’s championship roster, San Diego capitalized on critical mistakes and showcased their defensive mettle to earn the upset.
The breakthrough came in the 52nd minute. Galaxy goalkeeper Novak Micovic attempted a risky pass to defender Emiro Garcés, who mishandled it under pressure. Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, SDFC’s first Designated Player, pounced on the error and delivered a perfectly-weighted assist to Dreyer, who fired a left-footed strike past Micovic for the club’s first-ever MLS goal.
Micovic tried to redeem himself with stellar saves on Dreyer and Lozano shortly after, but the Galaxy couldn’t find their rhythm. Meanwhile, San Diego’s defense, anchored by goalkeeper CJ dos Santos, held firm. Dos Santos, making just his third career MLS start, recorded three crucial saves, including back-to-back stops in the 79th and 80th minutes to preserve the lead.
As the Galaxy pressed for an equalizer, San Diego struck again in stoppage time. Tomás Ángel initiated a counterattack, charging down the field before threading a perfect pass to Dreyer. The Danish winger sealed the victory with a clinical finish off the crossbar, sparking euphoric celebrations from the visiting side.
The victory marked the Galaxy’s first home loss since October 2023, ending their unbeaten streak at Dignity Health Sports Park. For SDFC, it was a historic beginning, making them just the second MLS expansion team since 2019 to win their inaugural match.
San Diego now turns their attention to their home opener at Snapdragon Stadium on March 1 against St. Louis CITY SC. With a strong debut behind them, SDFC looks poised to continue making waves in their inaugural season.
Photography by: Lorena Barros
