San Diego FC defeats Toluca 3-2 in dramatic Concacaf Champions Cup clash

March 11, 2026, Concacaf Champions Cup, Round of 16 (Photo: CONCACAF)

San Diego FC secured a 3-2 win over Toluca in a high-intensity first-leg clash of the Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16. The home side set the tone early with aggressive pressing, disrupting Toluca’s buildup and creating constant danger in the opening minutes.

The scoring began in the 12th minute when Marcus Ingvartsen found the net. Toluca quickly responded with a penalty converted by Jesús Gallardo in the 16th minute. San Diego maintained control and regained the lead through David Vázquez in the 32nd minute, finishing off a well-worked play down the wing with a precise cross and composed finish. The match remained competitive heading into halftime, but San Diego struck again early in the second half, as Vázquez completed his brace in the 46th minute. Anders Dreyer extended the lead in the 53rd minute following a strong team buildup. Toluca kept pushing and pulled one back in stoppage time with another penalty, this time converted by Helinho in the 90th minute.

David Vázquez stood out as one of the key performers with his two goals, while Anders Dreyer made a crucial impact at the right moment. A decisive moment came late in the match when Manu Duah was sent off in the 88th minute, forcing San Diego to close out the game with nine players.

With this result, San Diego FC takes an advantage into the second leg, although Toluca’s late goal keeps the series wide open. The Mexican side will look to capitalize at home and attempt a comeback.