San Jose drops 102nd California Clásico in all competitions; Sunday’s group stage conclusion between Chivas and LA Galaxy will now determine if Quakes advance to Leagues Cup Round of 32
SAN JOSE, Calif. — The San Jose Earthquakes fell to the LA Galaxy 2-1 on Wednesday night at PayPal Park in 2024 Leagues Cup West 2 Group Stage play.
The 102nd California Clásico across all competitions almost began with a Galaxy goal in the ninth minute, but goalkeeper William Yarbrough’s spectacular double save prevented two dangerous shots from crossing the goal line. In the 18th minute, Amahl Pellegrino unleashed a low shot in the box that required a kick-save from LA goalkeeper Novak Mićović to keep the match scoreless. In minute 21, San Jose had two sizable opportunities to score. However, Jeremy Ebobisse’s left-footed strike sailed above the bar, and moments later, Carlos Gruezo’s attempt in the box was turned away by Mićović, while Hernán López’s shot off the rebound bounced out of play. In the 41st minute, the visitors finally broke the deadlock when Diego Fagundez curled a shot from the left wing at the edge of the box into the back of the net.
Entering the second half down a goal, the Quakes looked to push the issue. In the 67th minute, Cristian Espinoza broke free down the right wing, but could not connect with Pellegrino on the cross. Moments later, LA’s Joseph Paintsil eluded two defenders, but he could not do so a third time, as Rodrigues recovered the ball in the box to thwart the threat. In the 73rd minute, Quakes midfielder Hernán López drew a foul a few feet from the top of the box; the ensuing free kick was blocked. In the 75th minute, San Jose’s high pressure finally paid off in an equalizer, as team captain Jackson Yueill intercepted a wayward LA pass and found Gruezo, whose through ball for Ebobisse was coolly gathered and slotted home from the top of the box. However, the visitors would emerge in the 89th minute with a goal by Miguel Berry.
Despite the loss, the Quakes’ chances to advance to the Leagues Cup Round of 32 are still alive. After earning two points from their penalty shootout win over Chivas Guadalajara last Saturday, San Jose will now await the result of Sunday’s 7:30 p.m PT match between the Galaxy (3 points) and Chivas (1 point) to close the West 2 Group Stage. The two top teams in the group after Sunday will advance to the Leagues Cup Round of 32; the Quakes would go through if the Galaxy win Sunday by any means (in regulation or via penalties).
All Leagues Cup games are broadcast globally on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, with San Jose’s matches in the competition also airing on local radio AM 810 The Spread (English).
GAME NOTES
Leagues Cup represents a monumental new chapter for North American soccer. Beginning last year, MLS and LIGA MX pause their regular seasons each summer and all 47 first-division professional clubs in both leagues compete in the official Concacaf-sanctioned tournament, which will qualify the top three finishers to the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup.
Tonight’s Leagues Cup group stage match marked the 102nd California Clásico across all competitions between the Quakes and Galaxy, with San Jose now holding a 33-50-19 record (143 GF, 168 GA). The Earthquakes are 28-40-17 against LA in MLS play, with a 1-4-1 record in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and a 4-5-1 record in the MLS Cup Playoffs. The Quakes also went to 18-17-11 in their all-time home record against their SoCal rivals.
Quakes forward Jeremy Ebobisse stayed hot with his second goal in as many Leagues Cup games to run his total to six in all competitions in 2024.
Defensive midfielder Carlos Gruezo broke up several Galaxy attacks while also earning his first goal contribution of the season with his 75th-minute assist to Ebobisse.
MATCH INFORMATION
San Jose Earthquakes 1 – 2 LA Galaxy
Wednesday, July 31, 2024 — PayPal Park; San Jose, Calif.
Weather: 76°F Sunny
Match Officials:
Referee: Lukasz Szpala
AR1: Chris Ellliott
AR2: Cameron Blanchard
4th Official: Joe Dickerson
VAR: Daniel Radford
AVAR: Tristley Bassue
Scoring Summary:
LA (0-1) – Diego Fagúndez (Gabriel Pec) 41’
SJ (1-1) – Jeremy Ebobisse (Carlos Gruezo) 75’
LA (1-2) – Miguel Berry (Miki Yamane) 89’
Misconduct Summary:
SJ – Cristian Espinoza (caution) 56’
LA – John Nelson (caution) 60’
LA – Maya Yoshida (caution) 82’
LA – Miki Yamane (caution) 90+6’
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: William Yarbrough; Vitor Costa, Tanner Beason ( Ousseni Bouda 89’), Rodrigues, Benji Kikanović; Carlos Gruezo, Jackson Yueill (C), Hernán López (Daniel Munie 83’) ; Amahl Pellegrino (Paul Marie 72’), Cristian Espinoza, Jeremy Ebobisse.
Substitutes not used: Daniel (GK), Jacob Jackson (GK), Michael Baldisimo, Preston Judd, Alfredo Morales, Will Richmond, Jack Skahan, Tommy Thompson, Oscar Verhoeven.
LA GALAXY: Novak Mićović; Miki Yamane, Jalen Neal, Maya Yoshida (C), John Nelson (Miguel Berry 77’); Edwin Cerrillo ( Gastón Brugman 71’), Marco Delgado, Diego Fagúndez (Mauricio Cuevas 59’) , Riqui Puig, Gabriel Pec; Joseph Paintsil.
Substitutes not used: John McCarthy (GK), Brady Scott (GK), Emiro Garcés, Tucker Lepley, Isaiah Parente, Eriq Zavaleta.
“This one really hurts, especially because it was so late in the game and we just scored. It’s a really quality team. Galaxy is a very good team. But I still feel like we had enough chances to at least get a result in this game. But you have to finish and you have to defend late. You have to defend your box. We’ll look at the goal again, and I’ve seen it a few times, and there were three or four errors on that play that are so preventable, and that’s what’s frustrating.”
On Jeremy Ebobisse’s second goal in as many games:
“We felt pretty confident once we scored, we went to a back five, which really should prevent any diagonal balls that get in behind your back line at that point. But Jeremy’s been really good. Really good finish. I thought we pressed really well on that goal, and we played them and he finished it coolly. So two goals for Jeremy in this tournament, and he’s looking really sharp.”
On the decision to go with Will Yarbrough at goalkeeper after Daniel started his first game since March 16 last Saturday vs. Chivas:
“Daniel was really sore from last game. Daniel was out for [four] and a half months. He played a really good game, but fitness-wise, health-wise, he just didn’t feel ready to go and I have a lot of belief in Will. He made some really big saves again tonight. So whether it’s Will or Jacob or Daniel, I’ve got confidence in these guys.”
On the high pressure bearing fruit compared to the June 29 game vs. the Galaxy at Stanford Stadium:
“We got a good goal from it tonight. I thought we played tonight better than we did at Stanford. I think there’s improvement there. You still want more. At least a tie. I think a tie would’ve been a fair result with the amount of chances. They had a big chance early on with the one that hit William Yarbrough, but I think that was offside anyway. But yeah, I think we’ve improved.”
On moving forward after the result knowing the team’s Leagues Cup chances are still alive:
“We’ve had a few of these late goals. That’s frustrating, so the message is we’re going to come into tomorrow to train. Re-gen for some guys. We’ll watch some film, and then we have to move on. It is frustrating. This one definitely hurts, but you have to move on, and again, we’re still in it because of our result against Chivas, and we’ll go from there.”
San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder HERNÁN LÓPEZ (23) takes some quiet time before the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes General Manager CHRIS LEITCH and Head Coach IAN RUSSELL have a chat before the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Forward CADE COWELL (16) takes some quiet moments before the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Interim Head Coach IAN RUSSELL before the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes General Manager CHRIS LEITCH and Interim Head Coach IAN RUSSELL welcome the San Jose Ultras Supporter Group before the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) dribbles upfield during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas huddles before kickoff of the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder HERNÁN LÓPEZ (23) battles to take a shot against Chivas Midfielder RUBÉN GONZÁLEZ (28) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder HERNÁN LÓPEZ (23) battles to take a shot against Chivas Midfielder RUBÉN GONZÁLEZ (28) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) crosses the ball during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) scores a header during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) scores a header during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) scores a header during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) scores a header during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) scores a header during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) celebrates his goal during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) celebrates his goal during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaThe San Jose Earthquakes players celebrate JEREMY EBOBISSE’S (11) goal in front of the San Jose Ultras during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender VITOR COSTA (94) look for a teammate to pass to during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) makes a move on Chivas Defender MATEO CHÁVEZ (50) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) makes a move on Chivas Defender MATEO CHÁVEZ (50) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) challenges Chivas Midfielder ERICK GUTIÉRREZ (15) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Midfielder RUBÉN GONZÁLEZ (28) controls the ball during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender RODRIGUES (26) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender RODRIGUES (26) dribbles away from Chivas Midfielder VÍCTOR GUZMÁN (5) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender RODRIGUES (26) dribbles away from Chivas Midfielder VÍCTOR GUZMÁN (5) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) cuts back behind Chivas Defender LEONARDO SEPULVEDA (27) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Forward ROBERTO ALVARADO (25) makes a move to pass San Jose Earthquakes Defender VITOR COSTA (94) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Forward ROBERTO ALVARADO (25) makes a move to pass San Jose Earthquakes Defender VITOR COSTA (94) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Forward ROBERTO ALVARADO (25) dribbles up field during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) pressures Chivas Forward ROBERTO ALVARADO (25) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Forward CADE COWELL (16) looks for his options against former teammate San Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender VITOR COSTA (94) fouls Chivas Defender ALAN MOZO (2) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender VITOR COSTA (94) fouls Chivas Defender ALAN MOZO (2) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Midfielder VÍCTOR GUZMÁN (5) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Defender ALAN MOZO (2) makes a move against San Jose Earthquakes Defender VITOR COSTA (94) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Defender ALAN MOZO (2) controls the ball during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaFormer San Jose Earthquakes teammates Chivas Forward CADE COWELL (16) and San Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) await the cross from a free kick during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Defender ALAN MOZO (2) shoves San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACK SKAHAN (16) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaReferee MARIO ESCOBAR signals that he is holding time as Chivas Forward CADE COWELL (16) and Chivas Forward ARMANDO GONZÁLEZ (34) ask for him to consider the big screen to see the previous play during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Forward CADE COWELL (16) cuts back behind San Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Forward CADE COWELL (16) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Midfielder FERNANDO BELTRÁN (20) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Midfielder FERNANDO BELTRÁN (20) looks for a teammate during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Defender GILBERTO SEPULVEDA (3) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Midfielder ERICK GUTIÉRREZ (15) during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Defender ALAN MOZO (2) crosses the ball during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Defender GILBERTO SEPULVEDA (3) controls the ball during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Defender GILBERTO SEPULVEDA (3) shoots the ball during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Goalkeeper DANIEL (42) saves the first penalty kick from Chivas Forward ROBERTO ALVARADO (25) during the penalty shootout during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACK SKAHAN (16) has \Chivas Goalkeeper RAÚL RANGEL (1) guessing the wrong way during the penalty shootout during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Defender ALAN MOZO (2) has San Jose Earthquakes Goalkeeper DANIEL (42) guessing the wrong way during the penalty shootout during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender PAUL MARIE (3) shoots the ball into the stands over the goal and outstretched Chivas Goalkeeper RAÚL RANGEL (1) during the penalty shootout during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Midfielder ERICK GUTIÉRREZ (15) has San Jose Earthquakes Goalkeeper DANIEL (42) going the wrong direction during the penalty shootout during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender RODRIGUES (26) easily slots the ball into the open net against Chivas Goalkeeper RAÚL RANGEL (1) during the penalty shootout during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Forward CADE COWELL (16) puts the ball over the goal into the stands against San Jose Earthquakes Goalkeeper DANIEL (42) during the penalty shootout during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder ALFREDO MORALES (6) neatly tucks the ball the opposite direction against Chivas Goalkeeper RAÚL RANGEL (1) during the penalty shootout during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaChivas Midfielder FERNANDO BELTRÁN (20) tucks the ball into the side netting against a fully outstretched San Jose Earthquakes Goalkeeper DANIEL (42) during the penalty shootout during the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender VITOR COSTA (94) shoots that ball opposite Chivas Goalkeeper RAÚL RANGEL (1) for the win in the penalty shootoutduring the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Chivas Guadalajara, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California
PRESS RELEASE:
July 27, 2024
MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1 (4), Chivas Guadalajara 1 (3)
San Jose wins 2024 Leagues Cup opener via penalties, breaks tournament attendance record with 50,675 fans; Quakes now return to PayPal Park to host LA Galaxy on Wednesday
SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The San Jose Earthquakes defeated Club Deportivo Guadalajara, also known as Chivas, 4-3 via penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation on Saturday night at Levi’s Stadium in front of a tournament-record 50,675 fans to open the 2024 Leagues Cup group stage.
The Earthquakes struck first in the sixth minute when Cristian Espinoza crossed a ball from the right wing that was headed home by Jeremy Ebobisse. The striker almost doubled the advantage in the 27th minute, but Chivas goalkeeper José Rangel did just enough to keep it out of the net.
In the second half, the Rebaño Sagrado turned on the heat, assailing the Quakes’ net with former San Jose star Cade Cowell causing trouble on the left wing with a series of shots. In response, the Black and Blue’s back line, led by an indomitable Rodrigues, won duel after duel to turn the Mexican giants away after 90 minutes.
However, in the eighth minute of stoppage time, Rodrigues could only look on from the sideline, as he was not immediately allowed back on the field after getting medical attention. In his absence, Chivas equalized in the eighth minute of stoppage time when Roberto Alvarado finished a Mateo Chávez service in the box.
With the Leagues Cup format mandating a penalty shootout immediately following a draw after regulation, San Jose showed their mettle, as goalkeeper Daniel, making his first start since injuring his hamstring in March, saved one penalty kick by Alvarado and forced another by Cowell over the crossbar. Meanwhile, the Quakes converted four of five from the spot, with Vítor Costa supplying the knockout blow to send the crowd into a final frenzy.
Both teams earn a point due to the draw after 90 minutes, with the Quakes earning a valuable extra point by winning the penalty shootout.
The Quakes finish Leagues Cup group stage play as they return home to host longtime rivals LA Galaxy on Wednesday, July 31. Kickoff from PayPal Park is set for 7:30 p.m. PT and will be broadcast globally on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, as well as on local radio AM 810 The Spread (English).
GAME NOTES
Leagues Cup represents a monumental new chapter for North American soccer. Beginning last year, MLS and LIGA MX pause their regular seasons each summer and all 47 first-division professional clubs in both leagues compete in the official Concacaf-sanctioned tournament, which will qualify the top three finishers to the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup.
Tonight’s match broke the Leagues Cup attendance record as 50,675 fans packed Levi’s Stadium. The previous record was 41,108 fans, which was set last year in a group stage game between Atlanta United FC and Cruz Azul on July 29, 2023.
San Jose earned their first Leagues Cup points in three tries dating back to last year’s tournament (1-0 home loss to Tigres UANL and a 2-0 road loss to the Portland Timbers).
Quakes goalkeeper Daniel made his first start since undergoing hamstring surgery on March 27, facing 22 shots (six on goal) and saving five. He also saved one of the penalties in the decisive shootout and forced another to sail above the crossbar.
Chivas forward Cade Cowell made his initial return to the Bay Area since joining the LIGA MX side in January. Cowell started and played the entire match, missing his penalty in the shootout. As a Homegrown Player for San Jose, Cowell netted 10 goals in 104 appearances. In his first season with Chivas, the Ceres, California, native has scored four goals in 22 appearances.
The last time the Quakes played Chivas was a friendly on October 14, 2003, at San Jose’s Spartan Stadium. Chivas midfielder Armando Tavira recorded a brace that proved to be the difference as Chivas went on to beat San Jose 2-0. Current interim head coach Ian Russell played as a starting midfielder for San Jose. Coincidently, on that exact date, Cowell was born.
MATCH INFORMATION
Club Deportivo Guadalajara 1 (3) – 1 (4) San Jose Earthquakes
Saturday, July 27, 2024 — Levi’s Stadium; Santa Clara, Calif.
Weather: 66°F Sunny
Attendance: 50,675
Coors Light Man of the Match: Rodrigues
Match Officials:
Referee: Mario Escobar
AR1: Luis Haroldo Ventura Chacor
AR2: Humberto Noel Panjoj Chitay
4th Official: Randy Encarnacion Solano
VAR: Melissa Borjas Pastrana
AVAR: Shirley Perello
Scoring Summary:
SJ (0-1) – Jeremy Ebobisse (Cristian Espinoza) 6’
GDL (1-1) – Roberto Alvarado (Mateo Chávez) 90+8’
Misconduct Summary:
SJ – Carlos Gruezo (caution) 41’
GDL – Fernando González (caution) 41’
GDL – Antonio Briseño (caution) 54’
SJ – Daniel (caution) 55’
SJ – Hernán López (caution) 72’
SJ – Rodrigues (caution) 87’
SJ – Jackson Yueill (caution) 87’
GDL – José Rangel (caution) 87’
GDL – Fernando Beltrán (caution) 87’
SJ – Alfredo Morales (caution) 90+6’
SJ – Chris Wondolowski (ejection) 90+8’
Penalty Shootout Summary:
GDL – Roberto Alvarado (no goal)
SJ – Jack Skahan (goal)
GDL – Alan Mozo (goal)
SJ – Paul Marie (no goal)
GDL – Erick Gutiérrez (goal)
SJ – Rodrigues (goal)
GDL – Cade Cowell (no goal)
SJ – Alfredo Morales (goal)
GDL – Fernando Beltrán (goal)
SJ – Vítor Costa (goal)
CD GUADALAJARA (CHIVAS): José Rangel; Alan Mozo, Gilberto Sepúlveda, Leonardo Sepúlveda ( Fidel Barajas 81’), Mateo Chávez; Victor Guzmán (Fernando Beltrán 63’) , Erick Gutiérrez, Fernando González (Antonio Briseño 90+3’); Pavel Pérez (Roberto Alvarado 46’) , Cade Cowell, Ricardo Marín (Armando González 62’).
Substitutes not used: Juan Liceaga (GK), Oscar Whalley (GK); Isaác Brizuela, José Castillo, Ariel Castro, Luis Olivas, Jesús Sánchez.
On what he told the team after conceding late, which led to the penalty shootout:
“There were a lot of emotions after that. A lot of frustrations with our team, so I had to bring them together and tell them everybody needs to calm down at this point. I told them they played a great game, but we need to calm down and we need to bury our penalty kicks. We know that Daniel was a good shot-stopper in goal, so they did that. I feel like they were so emotional that it wouldn’t have went well if we hadn’t gotten together and talked about it a bit.”
On Jeremy “Jebo” Ebobisse’s effectiveness up front tonight:
“I think Jebo was excellent all night. His holdup play has gotten a lot better. He was really dangerous in the box. You saw the goal, and he almost had another goal. Sepulveda did a good job of getting a body on him, but when Jebo plays like that, he’s one of the better strikers in the league for sure.”
On goalkeeper Daniel’s return after missing four months due to injury:
“Daniel has a really good aura about him. He’s very confident bordering on cocky. So I think the guys rally around that, but again, I don’t want to take anything away from Will Yarbrough who’s been really good for us the whole season. And when Will gets the chance again, he’ll step up and do really well.”
On the Leagues Cup-record crowd of 50,675 having an impact on the game:
“I kind of prepped the players for this game. I was fortunate enough in 2003 to play Chivas, the Quakes did. It was in a smaller stadium but it was packed and when we went on the field, we were the one team getting booed. I got them ready for that. I told them there was going to be a massive crowd. There’s a lot of Mexicans that live in San Jose, especially a lot from Jalisco here. So it was a great crowd. The players would love to play in an atmosphere like that every weekend.”
On Leagues Cup being an opportunity to turn the season around:
“That’s how we’re approaching this. We want to go far in Leagues Cup. It’s been a frustrating year, and even conceding late again. It was kind of like, man, we just conceded another late one. But if you look at our overall games, we’ve been in a lot of games. We make mistakes. We don’t score at the right times or miss chances. But tonight it felt different. It felt like the guys were completely bought in, so I think we can use this to go forward and get the confidence.
Houston Dynamo Forward IBRAHIM ALIYU (18) looks for a teammate to pass the ball under pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender PAUL MARIE (3) crosses the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Midfielder COCO CARRASQUILLA (20) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) is fouled from behind by Houston Dynamo Forward IBRAHIM ALIYU (18) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) is fouled from behind by Houston Dynamo Forward IBRAHIM ALIYU (18) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Midfielder GRIFFIN DORSEY (25) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Forward SEBASTIÁN FERREIRA (11) shoots against San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender PAUL MARIE (3) blocks a cross from Houston Dynamo Midfielder GRIFFIN DORSEY (25) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Midfielder LATIF BLESSING (15) before the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) looks for a way around Houston Dynamo Defender FRANCO ESCOBAR (2) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward AMAHL PELLIGRINO (9) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Forward IBRAHIM ALIYU (18) shields the ball from San Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Midfielder HÉCTOR HERRERA (16) dribbles with pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward AMAHL PELLIGRINO (9) takes on Houston Dynamo Midfielder COCO CARRASQUILLA (20) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Midfielder HÉCTOR HERRERA (16) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Midfielder HÉCTOR HERRERA (16) feels for the pressure from behind from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Midfielder COCO CARRASQUILLA (20) dribbles away from pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Midfielder HÉCTOR HERRERA (16) crosses the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Midfielder GRIFFIN DORSEY (25) crosses the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Forward IBRAHIM ALIYU (18) dribbles during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Forward IBRAHIM ALIYU (18) dribbles during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Forward IBRAHIM ALIYU (18) dribbles during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Forward IBRAHIM ALIYU (18) dribbles against San Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Midfielder HÉCTOR HERRERA (16) dribbles away from pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Midfielder COCO CARRASQUILLA (20) crosses the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Defender DANIEL STERES (5) looks for a teammate during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Midfielder ARTUR (6) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaHouston Dynamo Midfielder LATIF BLESSING (15) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, California
PRESS RELEASE:
July 17, 2024
MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 0, Houston Dynamo 1
Visitors score goal in 86th minute to break deadlock; Quakes look ahead to Saturday road match vs. Minnesota United FC
SAN JOSE, Calif. — The San Jose Earthquakes were defeated by the Houston Dynamo 1-0 on Wednesday night at PayPal Park.
After a scoreless first half, both teams began to settle in. In the 50th minute, Quakes forward Cristian Espinoza appeared to have drawn a penalty kick after locking legs with Houston defender Micael dos Santos in the box, but video review called it back. The Dynamo went on the attack with several threatening chances, but San Jose goalkeeper Jacob Jackson and the Quakes’ back line rebuffed 21 consecutive shots. However, in the 86th minute, Amine Bassi and Daniel Steres connected for the visitors’ go-ahead goal.
The Quakes will now travel to St. Paul, Minnesota, to take on Minnesota United FC on Saturday, July 20. Kickoff from Allianz Field is set for 5:30 p.m. PT and will be broadcast globally on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, as well as on local radio AM 810 The Spread (English) and AM 1370 La Kaliente (Spanish).
GAME NOTES
As of tonight’s final whistle, San Jose’s record now stands at 4-18-2 (14th in West; 14 pts), while the Houston Dynamo goes to 9-7-7 (8th in West; 34 pts).
San Jose is now 10-19-4 (41 GF, 53 GA) in the all-time series against Houston and 8-6-3 at home (24 GF, 18 GA).
Tonight’s match marked Quakes midfielder and team captain Jackson Yueill’s 200th MLS appearance since joining the club as an MLS SuperDraft first-round pick out of UCLA back in 2017 (6th overall).
Additionally, Quakes forwards Cristian Espinoza and Jeremy Ebobisse started Wednesday’s match, extending their MLS-leading active consecutive games played streaks to 98 and 97, respectively.
Espinoza remains only one goal contribution away from 100 for the Earthquakes (31g/68a). Only Chris Wondolowski’s 207 (167g/40a) and Ronald Cerritos’ 108 (61g/47a) are higher totals among San Jose players, past or present. Quakes assistant coach Steve Ralston had 115 goal contributions (42g/73a) for the New England Revolution during his playing days.
Former Quakes goalkeeper Andrew Tarbell (2016-20) and midfielder Jan Greguš (2022) were unused substitutes for Houston.
MATCH INFORMATION
San Jose Earthquakes 0-1 Houston Dynamo
Wednesday, July 17, 2024 — PayPal Park; San Jose, Calif.
Weather: 72°F Sunny
Match Officials:
Referee: Natalie Simon
AR1: Meghan Mullen
AR2: Kali Smith
4th Official: Joe Dickerson
VAR: Kevin Stott
AVAR: Joshua Patlak
Scoring Summary:
HOU (0-1) – Daniel Steres (Amine Bassi, McKinze Gaines) 86’
Misconduct Summary:
HOU – Amine Bassi (caution) 15’
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: Jacob Jackson; Paul Marie, Rodrigues, Daniel Munie (Tanner Beason 46’) , Benji Kikanović; Carlos Gruezo (Tommy Thompson 89’), Jackson Yueill (Alfredo Morales 68’), Hernán López (Jack Skahan 68’); Amahl Pellegrino (Will Richmond 89’), Cristian Espinoza, Jeremy Ebobisse (Preston Judd 83’).
Substitutes not used: William Yarbrough (GK), Michael Baldisimo , Oscar Verhoeven.
“It was a pretty even game. I thought the guys came out, connected passes, created some chances, defended really well. We played a team that prides themselves on keeping the ball, with really close central combinations. I thought we limited a lot of their chances. Unfortunately, they scored late in the game and that was it.”
On the team’s performance in attack:
“I felt like we missed some passes that would have created some really big chances on goal. I think it was more of that than the actual chances on goal. So just a few sloppy chances that would have created something. … We did create a little bit, but it’s got to be better.”
On trying to keep the team fresh with a third game this week on Saturday:
“We have three games in a week, so you want to focus on every game, but it’s a heavy week. So keeping guys fresh for the next game as well is a challenge. You’re definitely trying to win the game, and I think the subs that came on did a good job, and I think we’ll be fresh enough for Minnesota to field a really strong lineup.”
On the defense’s improvement during the homestand:
“I think defensively it’s been better, but now we got to get the attack going. It’s always that fine line. Going back into a back four, I thought we would create more tonight. But it’s just a matter of every player buying in defensively, being compact, tucking in, winning your tackles. It’s the small details. If you do that as a collective, you start seeing results.”
EARTHQUAKES DEFENDER BENJI KIKANOVIĆ
On the team’s effort tonight:
“I thought the energy and the fight was pretty good this game, compared to our usual. So obviously, I think I should have had a goal. And we maybe had a couple other chances to put a goal away, and maybe it’s different. But I think if we come with that fight and intensity, and just a little bit of extra grit, I think we’ll be OK at Minnesota.”
On playing right back:
“I mean, as you can see, we’re kind of experimenting a little bit with wingbacks. And then we went back to a four[-defender] back line. So just little tweaks like that. I don’t really think it’s too big of a change. Obviously, you have me playing there, which I don’t normally play there. But I try my best for the team wherever they put me. I’m actually going to work. But, in terms of that, I think the coaching staff does a good job in terms of just preparation, especially Ian. He’s a smart coach, and he knows what he’s doing.”
On the team’s defense improving of late:
“Everyone in the back, we try to do our best that we can. So it’s not just me and whoever else, it’s just, it’s a team effort. So, you got to put everyone in the category. But I do think that if we could tighten up the back, which I feel like we have been in the past couple games, but we just got to put the chances away. So I feel like if we put our chances away, then it’s a different game. But if we don’t, then it’s tough to win if you don’t score. Obviously, not giving up goals is nice, but you got to score to win.”
On the importance of winning second balls:
“There are a few plays where we kind of won the second ball and almost got something from it. But that’s kind of the strategy behind lumping forward, have me fight for the first one and get that knocked down, which we haven’t been doing too good of a job. Today was better. Last game, we didn’t win many second balls. But today was a little bit better. So hopefully, we can keep improving.”
San Jose Earthquakes Defender DANIEL MUNIE (24) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender DANIEL MUNIE (24) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Midfielder NEMANJA RADOJA (6) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward STEPHEN AFRIFA (30) cuts back against pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Defender DANIEL MUNIE (24) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) looks for a teammate with pressure from Sporting Kansas City Forward STEPHEN AFRIFA (30) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward ALENIS VARGAS (20) tries to move away from pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder HERNÁN LÓPEZ (23) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward ALENIS VARGAS (20) is fouled by San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder HERNÁN LÓPEZ (23) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) dribbles away from pressure from Sporting Kansas City Midfielder ERIK THOMMY (26) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward ALAN PULIDO (9) dribbles with pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Defender RODRIGUES (26) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward ALENIS VARGAS (20) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender VITOR COSTA (94) dribbles with pressure from Sporting Kansas City Forward ALAN PULIDO (9) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward ALENIS VARGAS (20) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward ALENIS VARGAS (20) looks for a way around San Jose Earthquakes Defender VITOR COSTA (94) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Midfielder ERIK THOMMY (26) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Midfielder ERIK THOMMY (26) dribbles away from pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Defender VITOR COSTA (94) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward ALENIS VARGAS (20) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Midfielder ERIK THOMMY (26) and San Jose Earthquakes Defender VITOR COSTA (94) battle for the ball down the sideline during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Defender ROBERT CASTELLANOS (19) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Midfielder ERIK THOMMY (26) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Midfielder NEMANJA RADOJA (6) crosses the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward STEPHEN AFRIFA (30) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward STEPHEN AFRIFA (30) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward KHIRY SHELTON (11) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward KHIRY SHELTON (11) dribbles away from pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward KHIRY SHELTON (11) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward ALAN PULIDO (9) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward KHIRY SHELTON (11) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward ALENIS VARGAS (20) and San Jose Earthquakes Defender TANNER BEASON (15) battle for the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward ALENIS VARGAS (20) and San Jose Earthquakes Defender TANNER BEASON (15) battle for the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender DANIEL MUNIE (24) and Sporting Kansas City Forward STEPHEN AFRIFA (30) battle for a header during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward ALAN PULIDO (9) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward ALAN PULIDO (9) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward ALENIS VARGAS (20) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) crosses the ball with pressure from Sporting Kansas City Forward DANIEL SALLOI (10) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Forward JOHNNY RUSSELL (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward AMAHL PELLIGRINO (9) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward AMAHL PELLIGRINO (9) dribbles away from pressure from Sporting Kansas City Forward KHIRY SHELTON (11) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward AMAHL PELLIGRINO (9) dribbles away from pressure from Sporting Kansas City Forward KHIRY SHELTON (11) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender PAUL MARIE (3) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward PRESTON JUDD (19) dribbles with pressure from Sporting Kansas City Defender ROBERT CASTELLANOS (19) and Sporting Kansas City Forward KHIRY SHELTON (11) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Midfielder REMI WALTER (54) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Midfielder REMI WALTER (54) crosses the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward PRESTON JUDD (19) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Midfielder REMI WALTER (54) watches the ball fly into the San Jose goal during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACK SKAHAN (16) pushes Sporting Kansas City Forward KHIRY SHELTON (11) during a header during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder HERNÁN LÓPEZ (23) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSporting Kansas City Goalkeeper TIM MELIA (29) punches a cross out of the penalty area during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder HERNÁN LÓPEZ (23) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sporting Kansas City at PayPal Park in San Jose, California
PRESS RELEASE:
July 13, 2024
MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Sporting Kansas City 2
Late charge from San Jose falls short; Quakes finish homestand Wednesday night vs. Houston Dynamo
SAN JOSE, Calif. — The San Jose Earthquakes fell to Sporting Kansas City 2-1 on Saturday night at PayPal Park.
The visitors opened the scoring in the 48th minute when Erik Thommy unleashed a deep left-footed shot from the center of the edge of the box that found the back of the net. In the 57th minute, SKC doubled their advantage when Nemanja Radoja picked out a streaking Alan Pulido for the finish.
San Jose refused to fold, and in the 82nd minute, a Jack Skahan pass in the box from the right wing ended up in the net when SKC’s Khiry Shelton swept it in for an own goal. The Quakes put on a final furious charge in the waning minutes but could not obtain the equalizer.
The Quakes will complete their three-game homestand when they take on the Houston Dynamo on Wednesday, July 17. Kickoff from PayPal Park is set for 7:30 p.m. PT and will be broadcast globally on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, as well as on local radio AM 810 The Spread (English) and AM 1370 La Kaliente (Spanish).
GAME NOTES
As of tonight’s final whistle, San Jose’s record now stands at 4-17-2 (14th in West; 14 pts), while Sporting Kansas City goes to 6-13-5 (12th in West; 23 pts).
San Jose is now 26-32-10 (86 GF, 93 GA) in the all-time series against Sporting Kansas City and 18-8-8 at home (49 GF, 33 GA). In the last 15 home matches against SKC, the Quakes are 8-4-3 (20 GF, 16 GA).
Quakes forwards Cristian Espinoza and Jeremy Ebobisse started Saturday’s match, extending their MLS-leading active consecutive games played streaks to 97 and 96, respectively.
Espinoza remains only one goal contribution away from 100 for the Earthquakes. Only Chris Wondolowski’s 207 (167g/40a) and Ronald Cerritos’ 108 (61g/47a) are higher totals among San Jose players, past or present. Quakes assistant coach Steve Ralston had 115 goal contributions for the New England Revolution during his playing days.
MATCH INFORMATION
San Jose Earthquakes 1-2 Sporting Kansas City
Saturday, July 13, 2024 — PayPal Park; San Jose, Calif.
Weather: 77°F Partly Cloudy
Match Officials:
Referee: Alexis Da Silva
AR1: Corey Rockwell
AR2: Cory Richardson
4th Official: Calin Radosav
VAR: Fotis Bazakos
AVAR: Jonathan Johnson
Scoring Summary:
SKC (0-1) – Erik Thommy (Nemanja Radoja, Johnny Russell) 48’
SKC (0-2) – Alan Pulido (Nemanja Radoja) 57’
SJ (1-2) – Khiry Shelton (own goal) 82’
Misconduct Summary:
SJ – Benji Kikanović (caution) 37’
SKC – Tim Leibold (caution) 38’
SJ – Jack Skahan (caution) 87’
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: William Yarbrough; Vítor Costa, Tanner Beason ( Amahl Pellegrino 59’), Rodrigues, Daniel Munie; Carlos Gruezo, Jackson Yueill (Alfredo Morales 59’), Hernán López; Benji Kikanović (Paul Marie 59’), Cristian Espinoza (Jack Skahan 78’), Jeremy Ebobisse (Preston Judd 69’).
Substitutes not used: Jacob Jackson (GK), Michael Baldisimo, Will Richmond, Tommy Thompson.
SPORTING KANSAS CITY: Tim Melia; Robert Voloder, Dany Rosero ( Robert Castellanos 23’), Tim Leibold; Nemanja Radoja, Memo Rodriguez (Remi Walter 46’), Erik Thommy ( Willy Agada 84’); Alan Pulido, Khiry Shelton, Alenis Vargas (Johnny Russell 46’) , Stephen Afrifa (Daniel Salloi 46’).
Substitutes not used: Ryan Schewe (GK), Andreu Fontas, Kayden Pierre.
On changing from a back line of five defenders to a back four mid-game:
“I think that the back five obviously helps you defensively, but I just didn’t feel like we created enough chances in the first half to be dangerous. … So, it was actually right after the second goal we went to a back four. We actually changed it at that point.”
On Cristian Espinoza and Hernán López matching up with SKC’s center backs:
“Yeah, I feel like I thought we’d get more pressure on the ball. I thought their center backs had too much time and space, especially early on, so potentially releasing more with Cristian and Hernán going to a center back to get pressure that way. I thought we were a little bit too deep. I think that’s one thing I would have. Well, I thought we’d get more pressure early and we didn’t, and then we had to kind of change that about 20 minutes in.”
On Sporting KC matching up with the San Jose press:
“Yeah, a couple things. So, you know, in our formation, they have an extra player in the middle with the way they’re playing. So, it makes it difficult when we get into a press with Jackson [Yueill] and [Carlos] Gruezo pushing high under their two defensive midfielders, that if they do hit a long ball, the second ball to have a player, and [Erik] Thommy was floating underneath. So I just told him, especially when the ball went back to [Tim] Melia, you don’t need to press as high. We need them deeper so they can win second balls. And again, in that halfway through the first half, we did try to get more pressure on the center backs, and I thought that was effective. But I do feel like when we went to a back four, our possession was better. We found Hernán not in more dangerous places. I thought that looked a bit better.”
EARTHQUAKES FORWARD CRISTIAN ESPINOZA
On the difference between tonight and the win against Chicago Fire FC last Sunday:
“Last game in Chicago, we did a pretty good job in the press in keeping the ball and playing more vertical in behind the defenders. Today, I think we were not in the same shape. I think every time that we pressed we were a little bit disconnected. It cost us a lot. We created a lot of space for them.”
On his role in the new formation:
“I feel good to be honest. I can be more connected with the midfielders and also I can participate a little bit more with the ball to wave the ball in the wide areas. I can be more and more connected with the team in between the lines. I’m very, very comfortable.”
On his growing partnership in attack with Hernán López:
“[Hernán] has an amazing pass on his left foot and we know the man can make those passes very easily. We need him to connect passes. He’s the connection between the midfielders and the forwards. I think his job is very interesting for the team. Hopefully we can help him even more, and also he can help us a little bit more.”
Chicago Fire Defender ARNAUD SOUQUET (2) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Defender ALLAN ARIGONI (27) tackles the ball against San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder HERNÁN LÓPEZ (23) takes a shot during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder HERNÁN LÓPEZ (23) and Chicago Fire Defender ARNAUD SOUQUET (2) battle for the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder HERNÁN LÓPEZ (23) dribbles between Chicago Fire Defender ARNAUD SOUQUET (2) and Chicago Fire Midfielder GASTÓN GIMÉNEZ (30) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder HERNÁN LÓPEZ (23) dribbles between Chicago Fire Defender ARNAUD SOUQUET (2) and Chicago Fire Midfielder GASTÓN GIMÉNEZ (30) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) crosses the ball against Chicago Fire Defender ALLAN ARIGONI (27) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Defender ALLAN ARIGONI (27) blocks a cross from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Defender WYATT OMSBERG (16) controls the ball with pressure from behind from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Defender RAFAEL CZICHOS (5) fouls San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) in a challenge for the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) dribbles away from pressure from Chicago Fire Midfielder BRIAN GUTIÉRREZ (17) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) crosses the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Defender ALLAN ARIGONI (27) stretches to block a cross from San Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Midfielder GASTÓN GIMÉNEZ (30) passes the ball with pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Midfielder MAREN HAILE-SELASSIE (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Midfielder MAREN HAILE-SELASSIE (7) dribbles away from pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Midfielder CHRIS MUELLER (8) dribbles during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Midfielder CHRIS MUELLER (8) dribbles away from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Midfielder CHRIS MUELLER (8) looks for space to dribble during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Midfielder GASTÓN GIMÉNEZ (30) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Midfielder BRIAN GUTIÉRREZ (17) dribbles away from pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Forward TOM BARLOW (12) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Midfielder MAREN HAILE-SELASSIE (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Defender ARNAUD SOUQUET (2) crosses the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Defender ARNAUD SOUQUET (2) looks for a teammate during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Defender RAFAEL CZICHOS (5) scans for a teammate during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender TOMMY THOMPSON (22) anticipates a corner kick in front of goal during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Forward HUGO CUYPERS (9) looks for a teammate during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaChicago Fire Forward HUGO CUYPERS (9) cuts back away from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender TANNER BEASON (15) and Chicago Fire Forward HUGO CUYPERS (9) challenge for a header during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender DANIEL MUNIE (24) congratulates San Jose Earthquakes Goalkeeper WILL YARBROUGH (25) on a clean sheet after the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIĆ (28) is all smiles congratulating San Jose Earthquakes Goalkeeper WILL YARBROUGH (25) after the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Chicago Fire at PayPal Park in San Jose, California
PRESS RELEASE:
July 7, 2024
MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Chicago Fire FC 0
San Jose shows grit to earn first clean sheet of season; Quakes’ homestand continues Saturday vs. Sporting Kansas City
SAN JOSE, Calif. — The San Jose Earthquakes defeated Chicago Fire FC 1-0 on Sunday night at PayPal Park to earn their first clean sheet of the season and snap a six-game losing streak as Ian Russell earned his first win as interim head coach.
After a scoreless first half, midfielder Hernán López got the Quakes on the board first when he hauled in a long pass from Cristian Espinoza and beat goalkeeper Chris Brady in the 49th minute. The visitors appeared to equalize in the 71st minute when Hugo Cuypers headed in a rebound off the crossbar, but video review called it back for offside. The Black and Blue put on a collective effort to close out the game defensively.
The Quakes will continue their homestand against Sporting Kansas City on Saturday, July 13. Kickoff from PayPal Park is set for 7:30 p.m. PT and will be broadcast globally on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, as well as on local radio AM 810 The Spread (English) and AM 1370 La Kaliente (Spanish).
GAME NOTES
As of tonight’s final whistle, San Jose’s record now stands at 4-16-2 (14th in West; 14 pts), while Chicago Fire FC moves to 5-11-6 (13th in East; 21 pts).
Tonight’s win snapped a six-game losing streak dating back to a 1-1 home draw with Austin FC on May 25 and nine-game winless streak dating back to May 11’s 3-2 road win over the Colorado Rapids.
The Quakes earned their first clean sheet of the 2024 MLS season for San Jose in the 22nd game. The club’s last shutout in regular-season play occurred on Sept. 9, 2023, in a scoreless road draw against D.C. United.
San Jose is now 14-16-11 (53 GF, 58 GA) in the all-time series against Chicago Fire FC and 11-6-5 at home (33 GF, 25 GA). The Quakes have won their last three meetings at PayPal Park, with the last one a 2-1 decision on July 3, 2022, on the strength of a Benji Kikanović brace. The forward beat then-Fire goalkeeper Gabriel “Gaga” Slonina in the 47th and 87th minutes.
Quakes forwards Cristian Espinoza and Jeremy Ebobisse started Saturday’s match, extending their MLS-leading active consecutive games played streaks to 96 and 95, respectively.
Ebobisse made his 100th and 101st appearances with San Jose against St. Louis CITY SC last Wednesday and tonight against Chicago Fire FC, respectively.
With his start tonight, Earthquakes midfielder and captain Jackson Yueill passed Shea Salinas in games started for San Jose (184) for third on the all-time club list. The midfielder now only trails Ramiro Corrales (228) and Chris Wondolowski (313).
Midfielder Hernán López scored his fourth goal of the season in 10 MLS starts (12 appearances).
Espinoza notched his 11th assist of the season, tied for 4th in MLS. He is now is the Quakes’ all-time leader in game-winning assists with 15, passing Richard Mulrooney and Shea Salinas (tied, 14). With his assist tonight, Espinoza is only one goal contribution away from 100 for the Earthquakes. Only Chris Wondolowski’s 207 (167g/40a) and Ronald Cerritos’ 108 (61g/47a) are higher totals among San Jose players, past or present.
MATCH INFORMATION
San Jose Earthquakes 1-0 Chicago Fire FC
Sunday, July 7, 2024 – PayPal Park; San Jose, Calif.
Weather: 92°F Sunny
Man of the Match presented by Coors Light: Hernán López
Match Officials:
Referee: Ramy Touchan
AR1: Jeffrey Greeson
AR2: Diego Blas
4th Official: Victor Rivas
VAR: David Barrie
AVAR: Peter Balciunas
Scoring Summary:
SJ (1-0) – Hernán López (Cristian Espinoza) 49’
Misconduct Summary:
CHI – Rafael Czichos (caution) 24’
CHI – Kellyn Acosta (caution) 37’
SJ – Hernán López (caution) 62’
SJ – Jack Skahan (caution) 87’
CHI – Fabian Herbers (caution) 90+5’
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: William Yarbrough; Vítor Costa ( Tommy Thompson 85’), Tanner Beason, Rodrigues (Jack Skahan 81’), Daniel Munie; Carlos Gruezo, Jackson Yueill (Alfredo Morales 81’) , Hernán López; Benji Kikanović, Cristian Espinoza (Preston Judd 81’) , Jeremy Ebobisse (Amahl Pellegrino 88’).
Substitutes not used: Jacob Jackson (GK), Michael Baldisimo, Paul Marie, Will Richmond.
CHICAGO FIRE FC: Chris Brady; Arnaud Souquet, Rafael Czichos, Wyatt Omsberg, Allan Arigoni; Maren Haile-Selassie, Chris Mueller ( Tom Barlow 63’), Brian Gutierrez, Kellyn Acosta (Georgios Koutsias 89’), Gaston Gimenez (Fabian Herbers 64’); Hugo Cuypers.
Substitutes not used: Spencer Richey (GK), Javier Casas, Jonathan Dean, Diego Konincks, Mauricio Pineda.
“We needed to win tonight. The [California] Clásico was disappointing. Then our game against St. Louis. I thought we were pretty flat coming out. So I thought we were on the front foot all night. Deserved the win. Just really happy with how our players responded.”
On Cristian Espinoza’s assist and Hernán López’s game-winning goal:
“Great ball by Cristian. Takes a touch and [Hernán] finishes it. Just shows his class. He’s obviously done well since he’s come here and I expect more of those goals from him.”
On the Chicago Fire FC goal being reversed after a VAR check for offside:
“We’ve had a lot of those close ones kind of go the other way. So in that moment, it was a relief that that happened. … I think it gave the players a little relief, and then we’re able to make some changes after that to kind of slow them down with it.”
On the return of Carlos Gruezo after international duty with Ecuador:
“I thought he was excellent. We missed him. Niko [Tsakiris] and Jackson [Yueill] have done a really good job in there. But Carlos does give us a little of that bite defensively. He just came off a disappointing loss in Copa América, where he played 80 minutes. I didn’t even ask. I didn’t even look at him. You’re playing the whole game. I needed him in there. So really proud of Carlos.”
On how the team came together collectively for the win:
“I don’t want to say it felt comfortable because there were moments in that game that were uncomfortable. It didn’t feel as open. It didn’t feel like every time we lost the ball that we were vulnerable. So that was good. I thought Rodrigues had a very good game. Hernán with the goal. Will Yarborough made some really big saves at the end. Not so much general shot-blocking but he came out for some crosses at the end of the game and slowed the game down. I also want to point out Benji Kikanović. I thought he was excellent as a wingback. It’s not his normal position. And I thought Jebo (Jeremy Ebobisse) up front held the ball up really well and ran the channels.”
On changes moving forward heading into Leagues Cup:
“The main object for us was to stop conceding goals. It’s the first clean sheet we’ve had in this MLS season. I’m super proud of the team. We needed to grind out a game like that. A 1-0 win. It gives us a lot of confidence moving forward with Leagues Cup. We’ll approach that when we get there but it’s a tournament we really want to do well in obviously. We just need to build momentum from this game and carry on.”
On forward Benji Kikanović playing wing back tonight:
“Just physically very fast. He can do it over and over. He’s not a guy that needs five minutes to recover. Very good in the air, works extremely hard. His defending has gotten a lot better over the last few years. I think he’s got a really high ceiling. He’s still young, so just really excited. He’s a guy that never complained, just does his business. He’ll do anything for the team.”
EARTHQUAKES GOALKEEPER WILLIAM YARBROUGH
On playing with a back line of five players:
“Playing with the back fives are tricky because a lot of people think you’re playing a defensive formation. And it’s not the case, especially with the way things are now. I think it was an excellent formation. It gives us a little bit of that structure in the back, always having one of the wing backs because you still always have those four in the back. So you’re a little more compact — where, when you’re shifting the distances —distances aren’t as far and it’s harder for teams to play between us, right? But it’s all turned out. It’s all about, including myself, staying compact, making things tougher for the other teams. I think we felt a little more comfortable.”
On breaking the losing streak and addressing the San Jose Ultras questioning the players’ commitment:
“I talk to guys in the locker room and I know they’re just as frustrated as I am. And I wouldn’t be surprised if our fans are frustrated. You know, we’ve had a very poor season. We can’t hide away from that. You know what it means to me; it’s my life. You know, I started playing when I was five years old. I’ve dedicated 100% of myself to the sport every day. I left home when I was 15 years old, moved away from the comfort of my home. Sacrificed birthdays, Christmases, family members’ weddings. I have a brother getting married next weekend. I’m playing, you know, and it means everything to me.
“One thing that I’ve always had in the back of my mind is I take into consideration everything that the fans feel because we’re a team and it’s not just the players in the locker room. It’s not just the staff that comes into the building. It’s a society, everyone. And when you’re not delivering, it’s frustrating. It’s very frustrating. I know they spend a lot of money to come watch us, and we haven’t been our sharpest. And so getting little victories like today, they’re happy for today. So are we, but we have another game Saturday. … We’re grinding. We’re grinding. Personally this is my life. Until the day my body says no or otherwise. I’m going to give 100% of myself to this.”
On Rodrigues’ performance in helping keep the clean sheet:
“Rodri is a classic defender. I love having him on on my team in that backline. I love the confidence that he has. He loves taking risks, and I admire that. Today he had an excellent performance. We were frustrated, especially in the back. … And so to see tonight that all the hard work being put in paid off on a night like today, especially speaking specifically about Rodri, I’m basically so happy for the guy. I know he’s going to go home tonight and have a relaxed night, and he’s going to enjoy the day off tomorrow. Then he’s going to come back Tuesday ready to go again. We all have to, but Rodri is a dude who I love having in the back line and I love that no matter how things are going. I love the confidence that he shows to try to play this style regardless of what’s going on.”
On earning the first clean sheet of the MLS season:
“We need to try to do something to change what we know we’re capable of. It definitely helps. You know when like today there’s a clean sheet but you’re going into [the] Kansas City [game] next weekend. I want three or four or five in a row. I’ll enjoy the night today, but tomorrow we have an off-day. I’m looking at film right away, seeing what I can improve on and certain things that I can discuss with teammates and do everything I can to make it two in a row. I like that pressure. I like that weight on my shoulders. It’s been a part of my entire career. And you know, hopefully we can make a turnaround.”
EARTHQUAKES DEFENDER RODRIGUES
On winning tonight:
“This victory brought us a lot of confidence to me, to my teammates, to everyone. We know there’s another challenge next Saturday, but again, this victory brought us a boost of confidence to look for another one.”
On the back line adapting to a new formation:
“I believe I had a good performance tonight. We’ve been preparing the whole week for it, so we were ready for it. We counted on our teammates to make it happen.”
“It’s a new formation, and I’m adapting to it. It has more people supporting the back line which is good. I’m adapting it, pushing forward to the next game, and hopefully having that same outcome.”
On using the win as momentum for the rest of the season:
“We know that we started the season in a tough position how our games have been, but we know we have to keep the consistency and have the strong mentality to move forward with our teammates. That’s what we did today.”
“Today’s victory was really important. You can be sure that we’ll continue to put in the work in training and next week. Next week will also be a tough one, but we’re looking forward for the victory.”
On the responsibility playing for the club and city:
“Since I got here in this club, I knew I had an important role to carry. Every game is like that. I know how big this club is, so every game I’m here, I look to do my best with my teammates. That’s always the focus. Moving forward, that’s what we want to do, make sure we communicate on the pitch to make everything works at its best.”