San Diego FC crushes CF Montreal 5-0 in 2026 MLS opener

A celebratory night in San Diego

San Diego FC opened its 2026 MLS campaign at home against CF Montreal in a match that felt special long before kickoff.

From the moment fans arrived at the stadium, the atmosphere was electric. The fan fest began hours earlier, with activities for supporters and remarks from goalkeeper Pablo Sisniega, who greeted fans outside Snapdragon Stadium.

The “keeper of the flow” for the night was Dominik Mysterio, while supporter group La Frontera SD unveiled a tifo honoring Rey Mysterio, symbolizing the strong connection between Mexico and San Diego through the iconic 619.

The start of the route

In the 13th minute, after a strong run down the wing, McVey opened the scoring and sent the crowd into celebration.

Following the first goal, the match entered a brief lull as both teams battled for possession. San Diego struggled in the final third, while Montreal failed to convert its chances.

Second half takeover

In the 47th minute, the match truly shifted. Goalkeeper Thomas Gillier saved a brilliant individual effort by Dreyer, but the rebound fell to Amahl Pellegrino, who slotted home to make it 2-0.

Two minutes later, at the 49th minute, Tomás Avilés was sent off after a reckless challenge on Pellegrino, a decision confirmed by VAR.

With the man advantage, San Diego capitalized quickly. In the 52nd minute, Valakari fired a powerful shot from outside the box to make it 3-0 and fully ignite the rout.

The dominance continued, and in the 59th minute, Marcus Ingvartsen added the fourth goal with a strong finish, making it clear that only one team was in control.

Dream debut for Bryan Zamble

In the final ten minutes, recent signing Bryan Zamble entered the match to loud applause from the home crowd.

In the 85th minute, after a controlled first touch inside the area, the 18-year-old scored to make it 5-0 in his professional debut, just days after celebrating his birthday—a perfect introduction for the Right To Dream academy graduate.

A clear message to the league

San Diego FC begins MLS 2026 with authority and sends a strong message: this team is not just here to compete, but to dominate.

It is only the first match of the season, but if this performance is any indication, the Chrome and Azul will be one of the teams to watch and fear in the league.