San Diego FC kicked off its 2026 Major League Soccer season with a commanding 5-0 victory over CF Montréal on Saturday at Snapdragon Stadium. The match, marking the start of SDFC’s second MLS campaign, saw a dominant performance from the home side, building on the success established during their impressive 2025 debut season. The game was in the second half as of 89’.
The victory signals San Diego FC’s intent to contend for a championship after finishing first in the Western Conference last year with a 19-9-6 record (63 points), setting expansion-era benchmarks for wins and points. The team advanced to the Western Conference Final in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs in 2025, demonstrating a rapid ascent within the league. This season opener provides an early indication that SDFC aims to build upon that foundation.
The match was broadcast in English on Apple TV with commentary from Max Bretos and Brian Dunseth, and in Spanish with Jorge Perez Navarro and Marcelo Balboa calling the action. Local radio coverage was provided by San Diego Sports 760 AM, featuring Adrian Garcia Marquez and Darren Smith. CF Montréal’s perspective was available on RDS and TSN in Canada, as well as TSN690.
Dreyer Leads the Charge for San Diego FC
Much of San Diego FC’s success is attributed to Danish standout Anders Dreyer, who enjoyed a prolific debut season in 2025. Dreyer recorded 19 goals and 19 assists, earning MLS Newcomer of the Year and MLS Best XI honors, and finished as runner-up in the Landon Donovan MLS MVP voting. He is now aiming to make history, with 30 goal contributions in 2026, he would join Sebastian Giovinco and Zlatan Ibrahimović as the only players in league history to record at least 30 goal contributions in each of their first two MLS seasons.
Varas Continues to Lead SDFC
Head coach Mikey Varas is entering his second season at the helm, following a remarkably successful expansion campaign in 2025. Varas is quickly establishing himself as a rising star in the coaching ranks, guiding SDFC to one of the most impressive debuts in MLS history. His leadership will be crucial as the team navigates the challenges of a second season and increased expectations.
CF Montréal Faces Tough Start to 2026 Season
For CF Montréal, the loss marks a disappointing start to their 2026 season. The team traveled to Southern California to face San Diego FC at Snapdragon Stadium, with the game kicking off at 10:30 PM EST. The result will undoubtedly prompt analysis and adjustments as they gaze to rebound in upcoming matches.
Current Standings
As of February 22, 2026, San Diego FC currently ranks 11th in the MLS standings, while CF Montréal holds the 2nd position, according to Sofascore. This early-season positioning is expected to shift significantly as the season progresses.
The decisive victory for San Diego FC sets a positive tone for their 2026 MLS campaign. The team’s ability to build on its previous success and maintain a high level of performance will be key to achieving their goal of securing a championship trophy. The season is young, and the competition will be fierce, but San Diego FC has demonstrated its potential to be a force in the league.
What does this dominant win imply for San Diego FC’s championship aspirations? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow MLS fans.
