San Diego FC Dominates Timbers to Advance in MLS Playoffs

San Diego FC showcased their dominance in the MLS playoffs with a resounding 4-0 victory over the Portland Timbers, securing their spot in the Western Conference semi-finals. According to The Guardian, the match witnessed standout performances from Amahl Pellegrino and Anders Dreyer, who each netted two goals. This victory marked San Diego's first-ever appearance in the Western Conference semi-finals and was celebrated by a sold-out crowd of 32,000 at Snapdragon Stadium. Head coach Mikey Varas praised the incredible support from fans, stating, "Our environment has been unbelievable."

The match began with an immediate impact from San Diego, as Dreyer opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a header from Onni Valakari's cross. Just 12 minutes later, Pellegrino scored his first of the night, converting a rebound after a saved shot. By halftime, San Diego was comfortably ahead 2-0, dominating possession with nearly 63% and generating ten shots, six of which were on target, while Portland struggled with just three shots on goal. Times of San Diego highlighted that Pellegrino continued his scoring streak by netting another goal in the 53rd minute, followed by Dreyer's second goal in the 79th minute, sealing the game at 4-0.

The match's physicality escalated late in the game when Portland's Juan Mosquera received a red card for violent conduct after a reckless tackle on San Diego's Hirving Lozano. This incident underscored the frustrations within the Portland squad, which struggled to find their footing throughout the match. The Oregonian noted that while the Timbers had a brief resurgence by winning a penalty shootout in Game 2, they were unable to replicate that success in this decisive match, demonstrating the inconsistency that plagued their season. Despite the loss, the Timbers managed to reach the playoffs for the first time since 2021, with some players showing potential for future growth.

Looking ahead, San Diego FC will face Minnesota United FC in the Western Conference semi-finals, scheduled for November 24. This match promises to be an exciting challenge, as both teams split their regular-season encounters. Dreyer, who has been a standout player throughout the season, was recently named Newcomer of the Year by Major League Soccer, further establishing his impact on the team. With their playoff journey well underway, San Diego FC is poised to make a significant mark in their inaugural MLS playoff appearance, aiming to become the second expansion team in history to win the MLS Cup.