Less than two weeks remain before San Diego FC emerges from the Snapdragon Stadium tunnel to face Pumas UNAM from the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México.

How do both teams enter this matchup?

Let’s take a closer look at some key details surrounding the game.

San Diego FC will be seeing their first action of the year, and it is no easy task—not just for them, but for MLS teams in general—when entering this tournament with little to no competitive preparation. Since the Concacaf Champions Cup format change in 2018, MLS teams have often faced opponents with a stronger match rhythm due to differing league calendars. This is certainly a concern for San Diego FC, as they could arrive at this matchup feeling somewhat “cold.”

Another important factor to note is the uncertainty surrounding Chucky Lozano. With no additional signings brought in, San Diego will rely on their current squad to build on the strong finish to the 2025 season and carry that momentum forward after the holiday break. With that being said, having a sole Designated Player in Anders Dreyer.

The addition of Lewis Morgan to the attacking core adds another intriguing storyline heading into the season.

Questions remain over how Mikey Varas will deploy Morgan—whether he will be used as a central No. 9 or if Varas will instead hand an opportunity to Marcus Ingvartsen, who, like Morgan, endured an injury-plagued 2025 campaign. Either way, the battle for the starting role promises to be one of the most compelling competitions to watch as the season gets underway.

Now, let’s take a closer look at their opponents.

Pumas, a historic Mexican club, are already three matches into the Liga MX season and currently sit seventh in the standings. They have yet to record a loss, which suggests they are coming into this match motivated and in good form.

Any discussion of Pumas’ lineup must begin with legendary goalkeeper Keylor Navas, who continues to display his world-renowned talent with remarkable consistency.

With players such as Jordan Carrillo, Jorge Ruvalcaba, Guillermo Martínez, and Juninho, Pumas showcase a well-balanced squad. The team is anchored in midfield by Adalberto Carrasquilla, a compatriot of San Diego FC’s own Aníbal Godoy and a dominant presence in the center of the pitch. The midfield battle between the Panamanians should be particularly intriguing. Also worth noting is a familiar face in Pedro Vite, who enjoyed an impressive run in last year’s Concacaf Champions Cup with the Vancouver Whitecaps, finishing as runners-up to Cruz Azul.

With the transfer window still open, there is always the possibility of changes before the referee’s opening whistle. Even so, this matchup shapes up to be a promising encounter between two solid teams.

Rodrigo Noriega

Rodrigo is a passionate soccer fan, fan is an understatement. Following SDFC, Xolos and most of the top leagues in the worlds. Binational grown, loving both sides of the border.