San Diego FC Sets Stage for Historic Home Debut Against St. Louis City

SAN DIEGO, Calif. — San Diego FC is gearing up for a historic home debut in Major League Soccer (MLS) on Saturday against St. Louis City. After a monumental victory against the defending MLS Cup champions, LA Galaxy, last week, the excitement is palpable in America’s Finest City.

The match, set to take place at Snapdragon Stadium at 7 p.m. PST, is expected to draw a sellout crowd of 35,000 fans, with the first 30,000 receiving a complimentary team scarf, as announced by Ricardo Campos, SDFC’s executive vice president of operations.

“This is a moment we’ve all been waiting for, to have our home match here in Major League Soccer, and it’s going to be a special day for a lot of people,” Campos said during a pregame press briefing.

To accommodate the enthusiastic supporters, parking lots will open at 2:30 p.m., coinciding with the start of the tailgating festivities. The fanfest event begins at 3:30 p.m. and will feature live music, activities for children, a beer garden for adults, and an array of merchandise options, continuing until 6:30 p.m., Campos added.

For those opting to avoid traffic, increased Trolley service is planned along the Green Line, with expectations of 5,000 to 7,000 fans utilizing this transit option, according to Mark Olsen from San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS). “MTS is very excited to support San Diego FC in their first game,” Olsen noted. Roundtrip rides will cost $5, and a season Trolley pass is available at a discounted rate of $56, covering unlimited rides on game days.

With gates opening at 5:30 p.m. ahead of the 7 p.m. kickoff, Campos urged fans to arrive early due to the expected large turnout. He expressed confidence in the electric atmosphere that the supporters group will create. “An incredible supporters group will be on the north end of the stadium. They will be setting the tone with the drums and chanting, and I expect nothing more than a very electric environment,” Campos stated.

Meanwhile, the SDFC roster features notable players including Mexican international Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, who has made headlines with his impressive performance during a challenging preseason that included three matches, culminating in a resounding 6-0 victory against Red Bull New York. The team’s chemistry and attacking prowess were highlighted by head coach Mikey Varas, who noted the player’s adaptability and eagerness to make a strong impression in front of their home crowd.

As anticipation builds, San Diego FC’s ownership group, which includes a mix of high-profile investors from various backgrounds, is looking to establish the team as a formidable contender in the league. With the arrival of MLS football in San Diego, the excitement surrounding Saturday’s debut match is emblematic of the growing soccer culture in the city.

As preparation for the home opener continues, fans and players alike remain eager to witness the unveiling of San Diego FC’s journey in MLS.