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Cesar Hernandez – Nov 26, 2025, 12:30 PM ET
SAN DIEGO — In soccer, a single goal can mean the difference between triumph and defeat, making risk-taking a daunting challenge for many teams.
Globally, some clubs prefer to avoid taking risks, opting for a pragmatic approach that relies on established methods. This conservative strategy often leads tactical minds to play it safe, especially in a sport known for its unpredictability.
However, San Diego FC, the newest expansion team in MLS, is not following this trend.
“When we entered this league, we conducted extensive analysis, exploring various ways to achieve victory in soccer. We questioned whether we could win differently,” said sporting director Tyler Heaps to ESPN. “I recognize it was a significant risk.”
Many MLS insiders expressed skepticism regarding San Diego’s prospects before their inaugural season.
While Heaps, the youngest sporting director in the league at age 33, and head coach Mikey Varas garnered praise, there were concerns about their immediate effectiveness. With a focus on an adventurous style of play and a commitment to developing inexperienced players, the team was predicted to finish last in the Western Conference by experts.
Despite the doubts, San Diego proved its critics wrong, now standing just one game away from an MLS Cup appearance.
Following a tense 1-0 victory against Minnesota United in the Western Conference semifinals, the sounds of “All the Small Things” by Blink-182 filled the air at Snapdragon Stadium, celebrating the expansion team’s knack for getting the details right.
“It all begins with a vision: Who do we aspire to be?” Varas remarked. “Having great ambitions while remaining grounded is essential; the journey is never straightforward. We’ve faced ups and downs, but maintaining our convictions through it all has been critical.”
Throughout the 2025 season, SDFC has remained true to its style. When pressing forward, they invite opposing players into dangerous zones before skillfully maneuvering past them. Featuring talented players like league MVP finalist Anders Dreyer and Mexico star Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, the team’s possession-heavy strategy often leaves them vulnerable to counters.
This commitment to their philosophy has led to nerve-wracking moments throughout the season, including a close call during Monday’s match against Minnesota.
In the opening minutes of the second half, San Diego defender Ian Pilcher made a crucial goal-line save. Moments later, Minnesota nearly capitalized on a San Diego turnover with a threatening shot just wide of the goal.
Defender Christopher McVey stated, “I enjoy being involved, building from the back. Despite any mistakes, we stick to our game plan.”
SDFC’s approach aligns with Right to Dream, a global academy network rooted in Ghana, which focuses on player development reflected in Varas’ strategy.
Behind the scenes, Heaps combines Right to Dream’s methodology with data-driven recruitment strategies, resulting in under-the-radar signings. His past experiences with clubs like AS Monaco and U.S. Soccer equipped him with the knowledge necessary for success.
Having launched their campaign with an impressive 2-0 win over the 2024 champions LA Galaxy, San Diego finished the season at the top of the Western Conference. They also set new MLS records for points (63) and wins (19) in a single season for an expansion team.
With a youthful defensive line averaging just 22 years, the team has stayed true to its commitment to developing young talent, adding depth as the season progresses.
“We’ve established a robust foundation for a competitive culture, with players who genuinely embrace the style and ambition,” Varas expressed.
“The camaraderie in our locker room is tremendous,” said McVey. “That’s a key ingredient for success.”
This commitment to teamwork is evident in their philosophy, prominently displayed at their training facility with the message: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
San Diego’s boldest decision came in October when Lozano, the franchise’s star, was absent from two game-day rosters following a locker room incident. The team managed to win both matches in his absence, including their first playoff game against the Portland Timbers.
Lozano later apologized on social media, returning to contribute with a goal and an assist in a playoff series win over Portland.
Varas reflected on managing Lozano’s situation, stating, “It’s about having a clear vision of who you want to be and staying consistent, regardless of the circumstances.”
While Lozano’s return has energized the squad, the loudest cheers at Snapdragon Stadium were reserved for another pivotal player.
In a tense moment during the semifinal against Minnesota, with time running out, it appeared the match might head into extra time. However, in the 72nd minute, Dreyer broke the deadlock with a powerful shot that sent the crowd into a frenzy, demonstrating the impact of his skill.
With the decisive goal, San Diego claimed victory, securing a place in the Western Conference final against the Vancouver Whitecaps this Saturday, just one win away from the championship match in their inaugural season.
“We’ve had a satisfactory season, but we aspire for even more,” said captain Jeppe Tverskov after the match. “As players, we can sense something special within our team; we’re riding that wave.”
Regardless of the outcome against Vancouver or a potential final, San Diego’s gamble has proven worthwhile. By mastering the details, they may forge a new bold template for future MLS teams.
Heaps encapsulated the leadership mentality, stating, “How do we ensure this isn’t just a one-time occurrence? By taking bigger risks.”
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