San Diego FC heads into the biggest match in its short history. This Sunday, in front of more than 32,000 fans at Snapdragon Stadium, the MLS newcomers will face the Portland Timbers in the decisive Game 3 of the first round of the 2025 MLS Cup playoffs. The California side, which topped the Western Conference during the regular season, was seconds away from sealing qualification early but saw victory slip away in stoppage time in Portland. Now, back home, they have the chance to turn frustration into redemption and take another step forward in what’s already been a historic debut season.
San Diego looks for balance and redemption at home
San Diego went through every possible emotion in Game 2 of the series. They dominated parts of the match, lost control late, and ended up falling in the penalty shootout after missing crucial kicks. Onni Valakari, Marcus Ingvartsen, and Jeppe Tverskov failed in succession, allowing Portland to breathe and push the series to a third game. The disappointment was clear, but it also served as fuel for the upcoming decider.
Head coach Mikey Varas knows San Diego needs to manage its unstable moments better. The challenge now is to stay composed and focused in what promises to be an electric atmosphere. The stadium will be packed again, with a sold-out crowd, and the squad knows that any mistake could be costly.
Amahl Pellegrino remains their main attacking weapon. The Norwegian forward has scored three times against Portland in 2025, while Anders Dreyer, named MLS Rookie of the Year, stands out as well. With 20 goals and 20 assists this season, the Danish playmaker has become the creative engine of the team. Hirving Lozano, who returned to scoring form in the previous match, also promises to be one of Varas’ key pieces, especially in quick transitions.
Timbers wants to prove it can still survive
The Portland Timbers arrive with momentum after an unlikely comeback at home. Gage Guerra’s 98th-minute goal kept them alive and led to a win on penalties. Phil Neville’s team enters this decider believing they can pull off another surprise.
In goal, James Pantemis has been in fine form, making crucial saves in both games so far, especially during the penalty shootout in Portland. He could once again play a decisive role in securing qualification.
The numbers give Portland reasons to believe. The Timbers have won five of their last eight elimination games on the road and have performed well in penalty shootouts.