Hirving "Chucky" Lozano is set to make headlines this weekend as he dons the colors of San Diego FC for his debut match in Major League Soccer (MLS) against the reigning champions, LA Galaxy. The encounter is particularly significant, marking the inaugural game for the newly-formed San Diego FC as they join the league's ranks for the 2025 season.
The stage will be set at Dignity Health Tennis Center on February 23, 2025, as the excitement builds for Lozano's first official appearance on the MLS scene. Scheduled for kickoff at 18:00 local time (Mexico City), this match is not just another fixture; it symbolizes the hopes and ambitions of San Diego FC as they strive for recognition and success among the elite clubs of American soccer.
Lozano, who joins San Diego after notable stints in Europe, particularly with Napoli and PSV Eindhoven, is considered one of the key players for his new club. Already, he's made his mark during pre-season friendlies, helping the team secure a resounding 6-0 victory over New York Red Bulls, where he not only scored but provided assists.
Head coach Mikey Varas expressed his anticipation for the match, stating, "I'm excited. Not every day you play the first game in the history of a club," reflecting the palpable enthusiasm surrounding the team's debut. The squad believes they can perform admirably against the formidable Galaxy, who entered this season as the defending champions after defeating New York Red Bulls last December.
LA Galaxy, recognized for their storied legacy and success within the league—already boasting numerous championships—will be under pressure to start their title defense strongly. The matchup against San Diego FC provides them not only with the opportunity to affirm their status but also to stifle the ambitions of their new adversaries. Galaxy's recent form shows them as competitive, albeit with mixed results, having secured only one win from their last five matches.
This inaugural season marks the first time San Diego FC will step onto the professional stage, with the team eager to establish their legacy and demonstrate the quality of their squad. Fans of the club, alongside Lozano’s supporters from Mexico, are expected to fill the stands, adding to the atmosphere of anticipation and excitement.
To catch all the live action, audiences can tune in through the MLS Season Pass available on Apple TV, which highlights the league as it continues to broaden its appeal among soccer fans worldwide. The stakes are high for this match, with both teams seeking to start their respective seasons on the right foot.
All eyes will undoubtedly be on Lozano as he graces the field for San Diego FC, where he hopes to continue his impressive career and perhaps score on his debut. With such significant beginnings being penned, the match against LA Galaxy has the potential to be historic not just for Lozano, but also for all of San Diego FC's players and their loyal fans. What stories will emerge from this highly-anticipated new chapter? Only time will tell.
Fans are buzzing not just for the game but for the opportunity to witness the start of what can develop as an exciting rivalry, as each side aims to write their own version of history this coming weekend.