San Diego FC’s dream start hides a problem no one wants to talk about | OneFootball

San Diego FC is still getting its legs under it in MLS, but has already left its mark in a league where expansion clubs are not generally expected to do anything more than that. In four matches, the team has demonstrated they didn't sign up just to learn, it's here to play on its own terms. The 1-1 tie with Columbus Crew, with the highlight goal by Onni Valakari, was just another chapter in this promising start.

Now at two wins and two ties, San Diego FC is the first expansion side in league history to be unbeaten in their first four games joined by St. Louis CITY SC.

Solid start, but what about that first home win?

San Diego FC remains undefeated, second in the Western Conference, and already has earned respect in the MLS. But there is one that continues to haunt them, the team has yet to win at Snapdragon Stadium.

The draw against Columbus Crew was symbolic. The first ever home goal for the team came about through a beautifully weighted corner by Luca de la Torre, to locate Onni Valakari, who jumped above everyone else and hammered home a header. The stadium erupted, but the much-awaited first home victory never came.

This is something Mikey Varas and his staff will be sure to focus on. Any team that is looking to get comfortable in the league needs to make its home stadium a fortress. So far, Snapdragon Stadium has yet to host a home win.

Staying unbeaten is key, but pressure to build is building

Going four games without losing as an expansion team is no easy accomplishment. But San Diego FC cannot let this streak of games become a distraction. The team's objective should be to accumulate wins and gain a firm position in the standings, not just avoiding loss.

MLS has seen teams start strong only to fade towards the end of the season. St. Louis CITY SC, which also started on top in 2023, maintained their rhythm and finished their first season at the top of the Western Conference. Can San Diego FC follow suit?

The upcoming matches will provide the answer. Fans are eager to see not just a resilient team, but one that dictates play and racks up consistent wins.