San Diego FC vs Pachuca: Leagues Cup clash preview with Chucky’s return

July 29, 2025 — Leagues Cup — (Photo: San Diego FC)

Snapdragon Stadium will host one of the most exciting matchups of the Leagues Cup’s opening day as San Diego FC faces the international legends of Tuzos of Pachuca, who we can remember they played the Clubs World Cup. This marks not only the home team’s tournament debut, but also the return of Hirving "Chucky" Lozano to face his former club.

Pachuca arrives with a trophy-laden history, including 3 Concacaf Champions League titles, 4 Liga MX Apertura championships, and even a Copa Sudamericana. With standout performers like Luis Quiñones and now recently joined Carvalho who has been a teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo on the Portuguese national team and will now join the Mexican side, following his stint with Real Betis in Spain, which came after his time at Sporting Lisbon and a proven system built on fast transitions and ball control, the Tuzos are one of the most successful teams in the Americas.

Meanwhile, San Diego FC comes into this with confidence and momentum. Mikey Varas' squad recently defeated Nashville in MLS, with Chucky scoring the winner. Alongside him are Marcus Ingvartsen and playmaker Dreyer, who currently leads the league in assists. Both marquee players are peaking at the right time. Quiñones and Lozano enter this match with stellar ratings, and strong attacking metrics. The contrast in tactics is clear: Pachuca thrives in high possession play, while San Diego is lethal in key moments and maintains steady midfield pressure.

Bookmakers show the odds nearly even. San Diego may have the home-field edge, but they face an experienced continental opponent. Control of tempo and neutralizing the star man will define the winner.