Sun Sep 28 04:40:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

San Diego FC, in their impressive expansion season, are leading the Western Conference and aiming for the Supporters’ Shield. They are coming off a draw against Atlanta and are tied for the most points by an expansion team. They face a struggling San Jose Earthquakes team fighting for a playoff spot. San Jose is plagued by defensive issues and recently lost to St. Louis. In their previous meeting, San Diego defeated San Jose 2-1. The Earthquakes beat San Diego 1-0.

**News Article:**

**Earthquakes Stun San Diego FC, Shaking Up Western Conference Race**

*SAN DIEGO, CA* – In a stunning upset, the San Jose Earthquakes defeated Western Conference leaders San Diego FC 1-0 Saturday night, injecting much-needed life into their playoff aspirations. Josef Martinez’s 14th-minute goal proved to be the difference-maker, silencing the home crowd and highlighting San Diego FC’s first true stumble in what has been a remarkable expansion season.

Coming into the match, San Diego (17-9-6, 57 points) was riding high, having already clinched a playoff berth and sitting atop the Western Conference table. They had the Supporters’ Shield firmly in their sights. Their previous game saw them draw 1-1 with Atlanta.

However, the Earthquakes (10-14-8, 35 points), desperate for points to secure a postseason spot, showed a renewed defensive resolve that had been sorely lacking throughout the season. Coach Bruce Arena seems to have finally addressed the “difficult time with defending in front of the goal” that has plagued the team.

San Jose, currently in 11th place in the West, needed a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. This victory puts them within striking distance of the final playoff spot currently held by FC Dallas. Their remaining schedule includes tough matches against Vancouver and Austin FC, making this win against San Diego even more crucial.

The loss ends San Diego’s bid to break St. Louis City’s expansion record of 17 wins, while they remain tied with LAFC’s expansion record for points. San Diego will now need to regroup quickly after this unexpected setback if they hope to maintain their position atop the West and compete for the Supporters’ Shield. They will look to bounce back in their remaining matches, starting with…

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