San Diego FC Stuns LA Galaxy with Dramatic 2-1 Victory
@sandiegofc
Match Overview
Under the bright Southern California sun on the afternoon of Saturday, May 24, 2025, San Diego FC pulled off a thrilling 2-1 comeback win over LA Galaxy in front of a packed Snapdragon Stadium. A stoppage-time header from Hirving “Chucky” Lozano capped off a tense, emotional derby and added another chapter to what’s becoming one of Major League Soccer’s most compelling rivalries.
@lagalaxy
First Half: Trading Blows Early
The Galaxy struck first in the 38th minute, showing flashes of quality through their veteran core. German star Marco Reus, orchestrating the attack from midfield, played a pinpoint pass to Diego Fagúndez, who made no mistake with a composed finish past San Diego goalkeeper C. dos Santos.
But San Diego FC, urged on by their vibrant home crowd, responded within 60 seconds. Luca de la Torre capitalized on a defensive lapse to smash home the equalizer, capping off a flowing move and shifting momentum back in the home side’s favor.
Halftime score: 1-1
@sandiegofc
Second Half: Tight Tactics and Near Misses
San Diego FC took control of the tempo in the second half, dominating possession with clean passing and organized movement. Midfielder Luca de la Torre was particularly effective in managing the buildup, while winger Anders Dreyer provided width and energy down the flanks.
Despite the dominance, LA Galaxy remained dangerous on the counter. Joseph Paintsil and Reus both had looks at goal, but neither could find the finishing touch.
With fatigue setting in, both coaches made changes in the final 15 minutes. Mikey Varas, San Diego FC’s head coach, introduced pace and fresh legs in search of a winner—and it paid off.
@sandiegofc
Stoppage-Time Drama: Lozano Seals It
With the match seemingly headed for a draw, San Diego produced a moment of brilliance. In the 94th minute, Anders Dreyer sent in a looping cross from the right wing. Hirving “Chucky” Lozano rose highest and powered a header into the back of the net, sealing all three points for the expansion club.
Snapdragon Stadium erupted. The goal marked Lozano’s Fifth of the season, and arguably his most meaningful in MLS so far.
Final score: San Diego FC 2 – 1 LA Galaxy
@sandiegofc
Fan Violence Casts Shadow Over the Afternoon
The electric atmosphere of the afternoon turned ugly after the final whistle. Fights broke out between opposing fan groups in the stands and spilled into the parking lot. Videos on social media showed multiple physical altercations, including one fan nearly falling over a railing during a scuffle.
Police responded with a significant presence, including mounted units and a helicopter overhead instructing fans to disperse. The incident drew condemnation from both clubs, who issued a joint statement denouncing the violence and vowing to increase security for future matches.
Post-Match Reactions
Mikey Varas (San Diego FC Head Coach):
“This is a club with ambition, and today we showed heart and belief. I’m proud of how the guys stayed composed and executed until the last second.”
Greg Vanney (LA Galaxy Head Coach):
“We’re gutted to come away with nothing. The performance was there for long stretches, but we need to be sharper at critical moments.”
What’s Next
San Diego FC heads to Seattle Sounders next week in search of a fifth consecutive win.
LA Galaxy will host San Jose Earthquakes, needing nothing less than three points to spark a turnaround.
As the sun set on a memorable MLS afternoon, San Diego FC emerged not only as victors but as serious contenders in their first season. And with the California Derby heating up, the league may have found its next great rivalry—provided the drama remains on the pitch.