San Diego FC made a resounding entrance into Major League Soccer on Sunday by defeating the LA Galaxy, 2-0, at Dignity Health Sports Park.
The official attendance of 25,224 watched as the expansion side became only the third MLS newcomer since 2017 to secure a victory in its inaugural match. The result also ended the Galaxy’s home unbeaten streak, which had stretched back to October 2023.
A bright start for San Diego
Anders Dreyer led the charge for San Diego with goals in the 52nd and 90+3 minutes. His first came after a slip by LA Galaxy defender Emiro Garcés allowed Hirving “Chucky” Lozano to send a cross into the box. Dreyer didn’t hesitate, guiding the ball past goalkeeper Novak Micovic to claim San Diego FC’s first league goal. He doubled the lead in stoppage time when substitute Tomás Ángel threaded a pass behind the Galaxy defense. Dreyer finished calmly off the crossbar.
Goalkeeper CJ dos Santos turned heads with three critical saves, ensuring his team’s clean sheet on a night. San Diego FC head coach Mikey Varas couldn’t hide his delight. “The most important thing is that the boys showed conviction for what we’ve been working on all preseason,” he said. “They showed the quality that they have. They made the football come to life on the field, and I’m so proud of the conviction that they showed.”
Lozano’s presence on the wing kept the Galaxy back line on high alert. He nearly scored midway through the second half and assisted Dreyer’s opening strike. “We’ve been training a bit over a month, and you see the result that the guys are willing to sacrifice and give our all for the team,” Lozano said, describing his pride in the squad’s early chemistry.
Grammy-winning artist Tems, part of the club’s ownership group, celebrated the win on social media. She’s the first African woman to be involved in MLS ownership.
San Diego FC will look to carry momentum into its home opener against St. Louis City SC on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Snapdragon Stadium. Supporters hope the synergy displayed in Carson was just the beginning of a memorable first season for this ambitious new club.
