San Diego Stuns Defending Champs LA Galaxy with 2-0 Win in Team Debut

Courtesy: LA Galaxy

The LA Galaxy entered Sunday with memories of December 7th still fresh, a day forever etched in club history as they claimed their sixth MLS title over the New York Red Bulls. But on this night, a new chapter was being written. San Diego, the league’s newest expansion team, was eager to make a statement, and they did just that. In stunning fashion, they took down the defending champions 2-0, sending shockwaves through MLS.

The first half was a tactical deadlock, with both teams generating opportunities but lacking the cutting edge to break through. San Diego, however, remained disciplined, matching the champs step for step.

Then, in the 51st minute, the breakthrough came. LA goalkeeper Novak Micovic attempted a routine pass to Carlos Garcés, but the midfielder miscontrolled it, landing right at the feet of MLS newcomer Chucky Lozano. Lozano quickly fed the ball to Anders Dreyer, who slotted it home to score San Diego’s first-ever MLS goal. With that, Dreyer carved his name into club history, but he wasn’t finished.

Courtesy: LA Galaxy

San Diego, brimming with confidence, continued to press forward. Their relentless attacking made them look like the reigning champions, not the newcomers. The Galaxy, meanwhile, struggled to find a response.

Then, in the dying moments of stoppage time, Dreyer struck again. Capitalizing on another defensive lapse, he secured his brace in the 93rd minute, sealing a dream debut for both himself and his club.

With a historic victory in their first-ever MLS match, San Diego announced their arrival in the boldest way possible, by toppling the kings.

The Galaxy will look to rebound from their championship hangover as they head north to face Vancouver. San Diego will try to keep the good times going as they make their home debut next weekend against St. Louis.