The MLS is getting closer to kicking off the 2025 season, and teams continue to prepare both in the transfer window and in preseason.
While some clubs are looking to strengthen their squads, others have already begun to show their level in the friendlies prior to the official competition.
Two teams that have recently attracted attention are New York City and San Diego FC, who faced each other in a friendly match on February 8.
The match ended with a 3-1 victory in favor of New York City, demonstrating the great level that the team is reaching in this preparation phase, and these are the 3 most relevant aspects of the match.
3 talking points from San Diego FC’s defeat to New York City FC
3. New York City maintains its good streak in preseason with its star Alonso Martinez
The New York team continues to show an excellent level in the matches prior to the start of the MLS. With this victory, they have accumulated two wins and two draws so far in the preseason, making it clear that their squad is understanding each other very well on the pitch.
One of the most outstanding players in this process is Costa Rican Alonso Martínez, who is going through a great moment with New York City.
Since his arrival in August 2023, from Lommel SK, the forward has proven to be a key piece in the team’s attack. In the three preseason games played, he has scored three goals, as indicated by Transfermark.
2. San Diego FC continues to adapt to the pace of the MLS
For San Diego FC, this match was an important test, as it was their first match against an MLS team in a friendly match.
The team led by Mikey Varas has shown positive aspects, but still has a lot of work ahead of them to become a competitive rival within the league.
One of the club’s big draws is the presence of Mexican Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, who is shaping up to be the team’s star. However, the squad still needs to find a better collective performance to support its main star.
So far in the preseason, San Diego FC has played two games, with a balance of one win and one loss. In their debut, they achieved a solid 3-0 victory against Sacramento Republic, but when facing an MLS team like New York City, they suffered their first loss by 3-1.
The team’s only goal in that game was scored by Paddy McNair, but it was not enough to avoid relegation.
1. Will San Diego FC be a competitive team in MLS 2025?
The big question left by this game is how competitive San Diego FC will be in their first season in MLS.
Although they have shown potential, the loss to New York City leaves doubts about their ability to face more experienced rivals in the league.
With preseason underway and MLS getting closer, San Diego FC will have to continue working to build a solid roster, while New York City seems to be finding the formula to fight for a good performance in 2025.
