San Diego FC draw 2-2 vs Real Salt Lake and remain unbeaten in MLS 2026
San Diego FC dropped points late at home in a thrilling match, but extended their unbeaten run despite another costly red card.
Joel Casillas
3/23/20261 min read
A bittersweet result at home
San Diego, March 22 — San Diego FC (SDFC) played out a 2-2 draw with Real Salt Lake (RSL) in an exciting match in the 2026 Major League Soccer season.
Following their elimination from the CONCACAF Champions Cup, San Diego looked to bounce back at home against a strong opponent.
Lineup changes and early developments
One of the main talking points before kickoff was the goalkeeper selection.
Despite Pablo Sisniega being available, CJ Dos Santos got the start as he continues his recovery process.
Meanwhile, Diego Luna began the match on the bench for Real Salt Lake.
RSL takes the lead
The match started with intensity.
In the 5th minute, referee Alexis Da Silva reviewed a potential penalty for RSL via VAR but did not award it.
However, in the 15th minute, Sergi Solans scored from a cross delivered by Pablo Ruiz Sanabria to make it 1-0.
San Diego responds quickly
San Diego reacted almost immediately.
After a key save by Rafael Cabral, Marcus Ingvartsen capitalized on a rebound to equalize 1-1 in the 26th minute.
Action-packed second half
The introduction of Diego Luna added attacking energy for Real Salt Lake in the second half.
In the 54th minute, Duran Ferree made an important save, and moments later, San Diego struck back.
A well-worked move between Pellegrino and Anders Dreyer resulted in the 2-1 goal in the 55th minute.
Late drama and equalizer
The match remained open, with both teams creating chances.
In the 84th minute, Victor Olatunji scored from a corner to level the match at 2-2, a fair reflection of the game.
Another red card raises concerns
Late in the match, discipline issues resurfaced for San Diego.
In the 89th minute, Christopher McVey was sent off after receiving a second yellow card.
This marked the team’s fourth recent red card, highlighting an issue that needs to be addressed moving forward.
Unbeaten but with room for improvement
Despite dropping points late, San Diego FC remains one of the few unbeaten teams in MLS this season.
The match delivered excitement for fans, but also showed areas where the team must improve—particularly in closing out games.