San Diego Closes In on Breaking 27-Year MLS Record with Stunning Performance

San Diego FC moved closer to becoming only the second expansion franchise to capture the MLS Cup—with Anders Dreyer's strike delivering a 1–0 victory over Minnesota United to secure their spot in the Western Conference Final.

Mikey Varas's squad, which established a new record for most regular-season points by an expansion club with 62 to claim the Western Conference crown, will host second-seeded Vancouver Whitecaps FC and German icon Thomas Müller at Snapdragon Stadium this Saturday evening—Vancouver advanced past Son Heung-min's LAFC via penalty kicks after an exciting 2–2 stalemate.

Though San Diego entered Monday's clash against Minnesota as favorites, they experienced some anxious moments throughout the match. Defender Ian Pilcher was forced to clear the ball from the goal line following Robin Lod's attempt in the 47th minute, while Pablo Sisniega made three crucial saves to preserve his shutout.

Ultimately, Dreyer—recipient of the 2025 MLS Newcomer of the Year honor—decided the contest in the 72nd minute, firing home a close-range effort that left Dayne St. Clair helpless in Minnesota's net.

The Danish star has been exceptional for San Diego throughout this campaign and increased his tally to 23 goals and 21 assists across 38 regular season and playoff appearances with Monday evening's goal.

Earlier this season, he developed a devastating combination with Mexico national team player Hirving "Chucky" Lozano. However, an internal matter has relegated Lozano to limited minutes during the season's final stretch and postseason. Despite recording nine goals and 10 assists in 27 regular-season contests, Lozano has featured for just 77 minutes throughout San Diego's four playoff fixtures.

San Diego FC Make More MLS History

San Diego has shattered numerous expansion team records, but aims to become just the second franchise ever to claim the MLS Cup—only the 1998 Chicago Fire can make that claim. They have already become just the second expansion club to reach a Conference Final, following the path of that Fire team.

Among non-expansion teams, the Western Conference regular-season champion has not progressed to the MLS Cup since LAFC in 2022. Before that, the distinction belonged to the 2011 LA Galaxy.

Where and When is the MLS Western Conference Final?

All Possible MLS Cup Matchups

The victor of San Diego FC vs. Vancouver Whitecaps will meet either Lionel Messi's Inter Miami or New York City FC, who eliminated the Supporters' Shield-winning Philadelphia Union in the Eastern Conference semifinal.

The championship match will take place on Dec. 6 at the venue of the team that finished highest in the Supporters' Shield standings.