C.F. Pachuca kicked off their 2025 Leagues Cup campaign with a dramatic 3-2 win over San Diego FC at a packed Snapdragon Stadium. In a fast-paced match filled with brilliant goals, big emotions, and a dramatic red card, Pachuca reminded everyone why they’re one of Mexico’s top teams-while San Diego FC showed plenty of heart and fight, despite still finding their footing.
Pachuca Strike Early and Often
The visitors wasted no time asserting dominance. Just 23 minutes into the game, Víctor “Pocho” Guzmán scored in the most unexpected way-a deflected shot bounced off his face and rolled into the net, giving Pachuca an early and unusual lead. It may not have been a textbook finish, but it counted all the same.
Before San Diego had a chance to respond, young talent Alexéi Domínguez calmly slotted home a second goal for Pachuca right before halftime, putting the visitors firmly in control. He wasn’t done yet. Early in the second half, Domínguez unleashed a thunderbolt from distance to make it 3-0, a goal that silenced the home crowd and showcased his elite potential.
San Diego FC Mounts Late Comeback
Despite trailing by three, San Diego didn’t roll over. In the 88th minute, Emmanuel Boateng found the net with a low-driven shot to spark hope. That fire only grew when Luca Bombino powered home a header deep into stoppage time, cutting the deficit to 3-2.
The comeback was thrilling-but too little, too late.
Red Card Chaos: Dreyer’s Frustration Boils Over
As emotions peaked in stoppage time, San Diego’s Anders Dreyer let frustration get the best of him. A late foul saw him shown a straight red card, meaning he’ll miss their next clash against Tigres.
For a young club like San Diego, discipline and composure in tight matches will be key moving forward.
Lozano’s Homecoming Spoiled
The spotlight was firmly on Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, the ex-Pachuca standout now wearing San Diego FC colors, as he faced his former club for the first time. Facing his boyhood club for the first time, Lozano was lively throughout and even struck the post-but couldn’t find the goal that would complete the fairytale.
His presence, however, elevated the match’s energy and drew a huge crowd of fans from both sides of the border.
“It was special to play against Pachuca, but I wanted the win,” Lozano said post-match. “This tournament is about helping both Mexican and U.S. football grow—and we’ll bounce back.”
Match Summary
| Team | Goals |
|---|---|
| Pachuca | Guzmán (23′), Domínguez (45′, 52′) |
| San Diego FC | Boateng (88′), Bombino (90+4′) |
SportSnip Analysis: Growing Pains vs. This match was a clash of philosophies:
- Pachuca: Ruthless efficiency, youthful talent, and years of experience in continental play.
- San Diego FC: Explosive potential, emotional fire, and a steep learning curve.
For San Diego, the late push was encouraging; they need to avoid early collapses and emotional outbursts to compete with Mexico’s best. Pachuca, on the other hand, looks poised to go deep in the Leagues Cup if its front line continues firing.
What’s Next?
- San Diego FC vs Tigres – A must-win clash for Dreyer’s side, now without their star playmaker due to suspension.
- Pachuca vs LAFC – A heavyweight showdown that could decide group supremacy.
Stay tuned to SportSnip.com for full Leagues Cup coverage, expert match breakdowns, and exclusive player interviews.
