March 11 – San Diego FC have flown out of the blocks in 2026, becoming one of the teams to watch in the Concacaf Region. The Round of 16 versus Mexican powerhouse Deportivo Toluca F.C. in the Champions Cup promises to be one of the ties of the round.
For San Diego, the match represents more than just another fixture. The expansion club is still writing the first pages of its history, and facing one of Liga MX’s most experienced sides provides an immediate test of where the MLS newcomers stand in the regional hierarchy as they make just their third appearance in the competition after demolishing Pumas in the 1st round 4-2 on aggregate.
Head coach Mikey Varas has emphasised energy and organization since taking charge, building a squad designed to compete with intensity. Anders Dryer is one of the rising talents and a player who can take the game away from any opponent with assists and goals.
Reigning Liga MX champions Toluca arrive with pedigree and confidence, having won four on the spin in Liga MX.
Managed by Argentine coach Antonio Mohamed, the Red Devils are a seasoned Liga MX contender known for their aggressive pressing and clinical finishing. Players such as veteran striker Alexis Vega and playmaker Marcel Ruiz provide the technical quality that has made Toluca a dangerous opponent in international competition.
San Diego will likely look to control the tempo at home and use Chucky Lozano’s pace to stretch Toluca’s back line, while the Mexican visitors are comfortable absorbing pressure and striking quickly in transition.
For San Diego FC, this is another opportunity to announce itself on the regional stage. For Toluca, it is business as usual in a competition Liga MX clubs expect to challenge for and win every year.
Leg 1: March 11 at 11:30 pm ET – Snapdragon Stadium
Leg 2: March 18 at 11 pm ET – Estadio Nemesio Díez
Winner faces: LA Galaxy or Mount Pleasant (Jamaica)