Beat L.A.: San Diego FC kicks off first season against LA Galaxy
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SDFC forward Chucky Lozano scored in the team's final preseason game, which it won 6-0. Photo: San Diego FC
San Diego FC is playing its first-ever MLS game this weekend in a primetime matchup that adds a new layer to the city's "Beat L.A." mantra.
Why it matters: The historic game against LA Galaxy officially kicks off SDFC's 2025 inaugural season as the newest franchise in a league that's rapidly grown to 30 teams in 30 years.
Driving the News: SDFC is traveling to face the defending MLS Cup champions at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson on Feb. 23 at 4pm as part of MLS' Sunday Night Soccer series.
- Fans can expect to see SDFC's high-pressure, high-energy style of play against the Galaxy – a historically successful club that struggled over the past decade before winning its 13th major trophy last year.
Who to watch: Mexican soccer star and forward Hirving "Chucky" Lozano, SDFC's first major signing, is a critical piece of the roster offensively.
- Forward Anders Dreyer, a Danish international player who recently played in Belgium, scored two goals in the team's only win out of three preseason games.
- Midfielder Luca de la Torre, a San Diego native who's been part of the U.S. Men's National Team, will be another key player on the attack.
- The team is led by head coach Mikey Varas and managed by Tyler Heaps, the youngest sporting director in the MLS.
What they're saying: "I hope that here we can play a style of football that attracts people — and win," de la Torre said at a press conference Tuesday. "At the end of the day it's our job as players to fill the stadium and to create those moments that people want to be a part of."
How to watch: Mavericks Beach Club in Pacific Beach is hosting the official watch party from 3-7pm with raffles, a live DJ and the first 100 drinks on SDFC.
- Mr. Tempo in Gaslamp and McGregor's Ale House in Mission Valley are also pub partners, and Hopnonymous in Kearny Mesa is hosting a watch party.
- The game is streaming on Apple TV.
The intrigue: Dedicated (and loud) fans can join the collective of seven supporter groups, including Daygo Boys, Riptides and Barra 18 that are traveling to the game.
Fun fact: SDFC is the sixth most "in demand" MLS team this season based on ticket sales, according to a recent StubHub report.
- Yes, but: The hottest MLS matches feature soccer legend Lionel Messi and Inter Miami CF, who SDFC won't play in the regular season.
What's next: Tickets are selling fast for the club's first home game on March 1 at Snapdragon Stadium.