
San Diego FC advances past Pumas 4-2 on aggregate in Concacaf Champions Cup
San Diego FC withstands pressure in Mexico City to reach next round
Joel Casillas
2/11/20261 min read



The first-leg advantage defined the series
After the convincing 4-1 win in the first leg, where San Diego FC delivered one of its best performances with a historic comeback, the big question was how the team would respond in the second leg at Ciudad Universitaria, a difficult venue due to the altitude of Mexico City and the strength of the home crowd.
Although the three-goal advantage seemed comfortable, there were still doubts about whether Pumas could mount a comeback in front of their fans.
A match of resistance in CU
From kickoff, the match showed a clear dynamic:
San Diego FC relied on a low block, while Pumas controlled possession and tried to apply pressure early.
However, the game was marked by mistakes in the final third, especially from the Mexican side, who failed to convert their chances. In that context, Pablo Sisniega became a key figure, keeping a clean sheet throughout the first half.
Halftime arrived with a 0-0 scoreline that felt like a partial victory for the Chrome and Azul.
Pumas gained hope, but it was not enough
Just after the start of the second half, in the 47th minute, Pedro Vite scored the 1-0 for Pumas, reigniting hopes of a comeback.
The goal energized the Mexican team, but it ultimately proved to be the only goal of the night. Both teams created chances, but neither could change the score again.
San Diego FC managed the tempo, protected the aggregate advantage, and withstood the pressure until the final whistle.
4-2 aggregate and qualification secured
With the result in CU, the series ended 4-2 on aggregate, securing San Diego FC’s place in the next round of the Concacaf Champions Cup.
Now, the California club prepares to face Toluca in a matchup that promises intensity and excitement.
A project determined to make history
San Diego FC continues to prove that it did not arrive in MLS and Concacaf simply to participate, but to compete and leave a mark.
After eliminating a historic Mexican club, the team returns home to prepare for its MLS home debut on February 21, confident that this project continues to grow steadily.
