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San Jose Earthquakes vs. Minnesota United, August 31, 2024

Minnesota United Defender JEFFERSON DIAZ (28) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Minnesota United at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA ADVISORY:

Aug. 31, 2024

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Minnesota United FC 2

Bouda equalizes for San Jose but Loons edge Quakes in second half; Black and Blue now head into international break before resuming MLS play Sept. 14 on road vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC

SAN JOSE, Calif. — The San Jose Earthquakes fell to Minnesota United FC 2-1 on Saturday night at PayPal Park in front of 15,122 fans.

The visitors got on the board in the ninth minute when Robin Lod controlled a loose ball and found Bongokuhle Hlongwane on a diagonal run for the one-timed finish. But the Earthquakes would answer in the 33rd minute when Amahl Pellegrino headed an aerial ball in the box toward a charging Ousseni Bouda, whose left-footed strike beat goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair. Bouda almost had a second off a header but St. Clair made a spectacular save to keep the score level. The half ended 1-1.

MNUFC regained the lead in the 63rd minute when off a long throw-in, the Quakes cleared two point-blank attempts by Hlongwane in the box, but not a third, as the Loons forward’s industriousness paid off for his second goal of the match. San Jose pushed for an equalizer but could not get one before time expired.

The Quakes will now head into the international break before resuming MLS regular-season play on Saturday, Sept. 14, when they travel north of the Canadian border to face Vancouver Whitecaps FC. Kickoff from BC Place is set for 7:30 p.m. PT and will be broadcast globally on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV (English/Spanish), as well as on local radio AM 810 The Spread (English) and AM 1370 La Kaliente (Spanish).

GAME NOTES

The Quakes move to 5-6-4 (21 GF, 26 GA) in the all-time series against Minnesota United FC and 3-3-2 at home (13 GF, 16 GA). Not counting the two clubs’ clash in the 2020 MLS Is Back Tournament where San Jose was technically the home team but the match was held at a neutral site in Florida, tonight’s loss snapped the Quakes’ home unbeaten streak over MNUFC in San Jose at three games (1-0-2).

Forward Ousseni Bouda’s 33rd-minute goal was his first of the MLS season and second in all competitions. His other goal was a May 7 game-winner over Oakland Roots SC in the 2024 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Round of 32.

Per the Apple TV telecast, Bouda was also the fastest player on the field tonight, reaching a top speed of 21.2 miles per hour.

Forward Amahl Pellegrino stayed hot, notching his second assist of the MLS season on Bouda’s goal. The play also marked his 10th goal contribution across all competitions and fourth in as many total games.

Forward Cristian Espinoza extended his run of consecutive MLS regular-season games played to a current league-high of 102 with his start tonight (Oct. 2, 2021 – present). The streak is not only a Quakes record but the seventh-longest in MLS history. Luis Robles holds the league record with 183 straight appearances (Sept. 29, 2012 – May 12, 2018).

MATCH INFORMATION

San Jose Earthquakes 1-2 Minnesota United FC

Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024 — PayPal Park; San Jose, Calif.

Weather: 68°F Clear

Attendance: 15,122

Match Officials:

Referee: Sergii Demianchuk

AR1: Stefan Tanaka-Freundt

AR2: Eduardo Jeff

4th Official: Tim Ford

VAR: Edvin Jurisevic

AVAR: Tom Supple

Scoring Summary:

MIN (0-1) – Bongokuhle Hlongwane (Robin Lod) 9’

SJ (1-1) – Ousseni Bouda (Amahl Pellegrino) 33’

MIN (1-2) – Bongokuhle Hlongwane (unassisted) 63’

Misconduct Summary:

MIN – Jefferson Diaz (caution) 79’

SJ – Carlos Gruezo (caution) 87’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: Daniel; Vítor Costa (Paul Marie 72’), Rodrigues, Daniel Munie, Benji Kikanović (Tanner Beason 77’); Carlos Gruezo, Jackson Yueill (C) (Niko Tsakiris 72’), Hernán López; Amahl Pellegrino (Jack Skahan 72’), Cristian Espinoza, Ousseni Bouda (Preston Judd 77’).

Substitutes not used: William Yarbrough (GK), Alfredo Morales, Tommy Thompson, Oscar Verhoeven.

POSS.: 54.1%; SHOTS: 5; SOG: 2; CORNERS: 3; OFFSIDES: 1; SAVES: 4; FOULS: 7; xG: 1.1

MINNESOTA UNITED FC: Dayne St. Clair; Miguel Tapias, Michael Boxall (C), Jefferson Diaz; Joseph Rosales ( DJ Taylor 71’), Robin Lod (Carlos Harvey 90+2’) , Wil Trapp, Hassani Dotson; Kelvin Yeboah, San Bin Jeong (Tani Oluwaseyi 63’), Bongokuhle Hlongwane (Devin Padelford 71’).

Substitutes not used: Alec Smir (GK), Franco Fragapane, Matúš Kmet, Teemu Pukki, Samuel Shashoua.

POSS.: 45.9%; SHOTS: 13; SOG: 6; CORNERS: 8; OFFSIDES: 1; SAVES: 1; FOULS: 18; xG: 2.7

EARTHQUAKES INTERIM HEAD COACH IAN RUSSELL

On Ousseni Bouda’s performance and return from his loan spell with Monterey Bay FC:

“I thought we didn’t start great. It’s good for [Ousseni] Bouda to get that goal. Bouda’s been a really bright spot these last two games. I thought he played well in Salt Lake [City] and played well tonight. Glad he got rewarded. But again, we have to be consistent right from the start of the first whistle. We had some moments, but I think it wasn’t our best game tonight.”

“Bouda played two games with Monterey Bay, and in both games he did really well, scored a goal and was just a handful. He’s a tough player to play against — he’s strong, physical, wants to run, looks to running behind. We liked what we saw and we’re going to look to get [Bouda] some minutes here. He’s taken that and done really well.”

On the lead-up to tonight’s match:

“We had a really good week of training. The start of the half, or end of this first half, I thought we started getting control of the game and created some chances. We didn’t capitalize, and they did. They had a long throw, they flicked it in and got it to go that way. It’s just been trying to be consistent. I think over the last seven games, we’ve been pretty good in every game. This is a game that we could have tied at the end, so we’re making progress, but it’s frustrating to lose.”

On Minnesota United FC’s second goal:

“We scored, and they come back and capitalize on a long throw, a set piece, basically. So it’s frustrating. But again, I felt like the players didn’t quit. We tried to get that second goal. We almost did with [Daniel] Munie, actually who was really injured at the time. As long as we’re fighting and trying to equalize late, that’s all we can do.”

On the team’s continued improvement:

“It’s been getting consistently better defensively. Starting with our front three pressing. We’ve been winning a lot of balls high at the field. We created turnovers against [Real] Salt Lake that led to two goals. It’s about being consistently good at doing that, but just limiting chances. I think as the season has gone, we’ve gotten gradually better at that. So I’m happy with that.”

EARTHQUAKES FORWARD OUSSENI BOUDA

On scoring the first-half equalizer:

“For me, I’m happy with the goal for sure. I thought I was going to get a second one. I think there is overall a lot of things in the game that I have to keep working on, trying to get better at. Link the game, do the running for the team and all of that. I look forward to keep progressing.”

On tonight’s game:

“I think we could have done better in this game; we could have won it. We could have started better. I think we weren’t necessarily on the front foot to begin the game. That’s what we need to correct and keep pushing. Obviously, not to concede off a long throw for example, to lose a game like that, especially when we work so hard to get back in the game and we are at home and towards the end, we know that we could grab a winner. I think we need to start better.”

On returning from his brief loan stint with Monterey Bay FC:

“When I came back, it was right before Leagues Cup. Ian [Russell] told me that he was happy with what he saw at Monterey. It was a short time, but he recalled me back and was like, ‘Keep pushing, work hard, then we’ll see what happens because there might be opportunities.’ I was excited to be back for sure.”

On making the most of his opportunities on the field:

“For me, regardless of whether it’s one minute or 90 minutes, this is what I love to do. This is my dream. I love playing for the Quakes. I just want to just give it my all, all of the time, because that’s really all I can control. Whether I miss a chance, or whether I’m in for five minutes and maybe I don’t touch the ball, just always control whatever you control. And I hope that I continue to do that, and then just keep my head down whether I’m scoring hat tricks in games or not, that’s just the mentality I aspire to have.”

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:

Ryan Maquiñana – Director, Communications

rmaquinana@sjearthquakes.com

C: 650.243.8523

Jake Jansing – Coordinator, Communications

jjansing@sjearthquakes.com

C: 408.425.1329

San Jose Earthquakes vs. LA Galaxy, July 31, 2024

The Quakes and Galaxy players line up for the National Anthem before the Leagues Cup match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Los Angeles Galaxy at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

PRESS RELEASE:

July 31, 2024

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, LA Galaxy 2

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.

POSS.: 44.6%; SHOTS: 14; SOG: 4; CORNERS: 2; OFFSIDES: 3; SAVES: 7; FOULS: 8; xG: 1.8

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.

POSS.: 55.4%; SHOTS: 20 ; SOG: 9; CORNERS: 6; OFFSIDES: 1; SAVES: 3; FOULS: 13; xG: 2.8

EARTHQUAKES INTERIM HEAD COACH IAN RUSSELL

On overall reflections of the match:

“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.”

####

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:

Ryan Maquiñana – Director, Communications

rmaquinana@sjearthquakes.com

C: 650.243.8523

Jake Jansing – Coordinator, Communications

jjansing@sjearthquakes.com

C: 408.425.1329

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Chivas de Guadalajara, July 27, 2024

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, 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

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.

POSS.: 59.1 %; SHOTS: 22; SOG: 6; CORNERS: 4; OFFSIDES: 0; SAVES: 1; FOULS: 6; xG: 2.3

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: Daniel; Benji Kikanović, Rodrigues, Tanner Beason, Vítor Costa; Carlos Gruezo, Jackson Yueill (C) ( Alfredo Morales 87’), Hernán López (Oscar Verhoeven 87’); Amahl Pellegrino ( Jack Skahan 65’), Cristian Espinoza (Paul Marie 82’) , Jeremy Ebobisse (Ousseni Bouda 82’).

Substitutes not used: Jacob Jackson (GK), William Yarbrough (GK), Michael Baldisimo, Will Richmond, Tommy Thompson.

POSS.: 40.9%; SHOTS: 7; SOG: 2; CORNERS: 3; OFFSIDES: 0; SAVES: 5; FOULS: 8; xG: 0.9

EARTHQUAKES INTERIM HEAD COACH IAN RUSSELL

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.

####

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:

Ryan Maquiñana – Director, Communications

rmaquinana@sjearthquakes.com

C: 650.243.8523

Jake Jansing – Coordinator, Communications

jjansing@sjearthquakes.com

C: 408.425.1329

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Houston Dynamo, July 17, 2024

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, 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.

POSS.: 42.2%; SHOTS: 8; SOG: 0; CORNERS: 5; OFFSIDES: 1; SAVES: 6; FOULS: 15; xG: 0.8

HOUSTON DYNAMO: Steve Clark; Franco Escobar, Griffin Dorsey ( Daniel Steres 75’), Erik Sviatchenko, Micael dos Santos; Artur, Amine Bassi, Héctor Herrera, Ibrahim Aliyu (McKinze Gaines 75’) , Coco Carrasquilla; Sebastián Ferreira (Sebastian Kowalczyk 83’).

Substitutes not used: Andrew Tarbell (GK), Latif Blessing, Jan Greguš, Gabe Segal, Brad Smith.

POSS.: 57.8%; SHOTS: 22; SOG: 7; CORNERS: 7; OFFSIDES: 5; SAVES: 0; FOULS: 14; xG: 1.5

EARTHQUAKES INTERIM HEAD COACH IAN RUSSELL

On tonight’s game overall:

“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.”

####

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:

Ryan Maquiñana – Director, Communications

rmaquinana@sjearthquakes.com

C: 650.243.8523

Jake Jansing – Coordinator, Communications

jjansing@sjearthquakes.com

C: 408.425.1329

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Sporting Kansas City, July 13, 2024

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, 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.

POSS.: 49.3%; SHOTS: 11; SOG: 1; CORNERS: 8; OFFSIDES: 2; SAVES: 0; FOULS: 8; xG: 0.9

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.

POSS.: 50.7%; SHOTS: 13 ; SOG: 4; CORNERS: 7; OFFSIDES: 1; SAVES: 1; FOULS: 12; xG: 1.2

EARTHQUAKES INTERIM HEAD COACH IAN RUSSELL

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.”

####

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:

Ryan Maquiñana – Director, Communications

rmaquinana@sjearthquakes.com

C: 650.243.8523

Jake Jansing – Coordinator, Communications

jjansing@sjearthquakes.com

C: 408.425.1329

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Chicago Fire, July 7, 2024

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, 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.

POSS.: 46.7%; SHOTS: 13 ; SOG: 4; CORNERS: 7; OFFSIDES: 3; SAVES: 1; FOULS: 7; xG: 1.1

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.

POSS.: 53.3%; SHOTS: 10 ; SOG: 1; CORNERS: 5; OFFSIDES: 2; SAVES: 3; FOULS: 11; xG: 0.9

EARTHQUAKES INTERIM HEAD COACH IAN RUSSELL

On snapping the losing streak:

“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.”

####

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:

Ryan Maquiñana – Director, Communications

rmaquinana@sjearthquakes.com

C: 650.243.8523

Jake Jansing – Coordinator, Communications

jjansing@sjearthquakes.com

C: 408.425.1329

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Portland Timbers, June 19, 2024

Former San Francisco 49er Alex Smith sounds the Earthquake Siren before the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Portland Timbers at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

PRESS RELEASE:

June 19, 2024

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Portland Timbers 2

San Jose edged late in second half; Quakes look ahead to Saturday road match against Los Angeles FC

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes fell 2-1 to the Portland Timbers on Wednesday night at PayPal Park.

The visitors opened the scoring in the 22nd minute when Evander took advantage of a turnover in the box and beat Quakes goalkeeper Jacob Jackson. The Quakes would emphatically answer in the 50th minute with a long-range blast from Paul Marie to equalize. However, Portland recaptured the lead for good when Evander fed Jonathan “Cabecita” Rodriguez for the finish in the 72nd minute.

The Quakes will now prepare for a road match against Los Angeles Football Club on Saturday, June 22. Kickoff from BMO Stadium 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

The Quakes are now 6-22-10 against the Timbers in MLS regular-season play and 6-5-6 at home.

Winger Cristian Espinoza and Jeremy Ebobisse started Wednesday’s match, extending their MLS-leading consecutive games played streaks to 93 and 92, respectively.

Goalkeeper Jacob Jackson made his Quakes debut in MLS play. He started last month’s San Jose’s 2024 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Round of 16 matchup against Sacramento, a 4-3 defeat in extra time where he made five saves — several at point-blank range — to keep the Black and Blue in the game.

In the 50th minute, Quakes defender Paul Marie scored his second goal of the season and sixth of his career.

MATCH INFORMATION

San Jose Earthquakes 1-2 Portland Timbers

Saturday, June 19, 2024 – PayPal Park; San Jose, Calif.

Weather: 65° Sunny

Match Officials:

Referee: Marcos DeOliveira

AR1: Andrew Bigelow

AR2: Jeremy Hanson

4th Official: Ricardo Fierro

VAR: Greg Dopka

AVAR: Mike Kampmeinert

Scoring Summary:

POR (0-1) – Evander (unassisted) 22’

SJ (1-1) – Paul Marie (unassisted) 50’

POR (1-2) – Jonathan Rodriguez (Evander, Juan Mosquera) 72’

Misconduct Summary:

POR – Claudio Bravo (caution) 48′

POR – Evander (caution) 76′

POR – Nathan Fogaca (caution) 87′

POR – Diego Chará (caution) 89′

POR – Eric Miller (caution) 90+4′

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: Jacob Jackson; Vítor Costa (Tommy Thompson 81’), Tanner Beason, Daniel Munie, Carlos Akapo (Paul Marie 18’); Jackson Yueill (C) (Alfredo Morales 81’), Niko Tsakiris, Hernán López; Amahl Pellegrino (Jack Skahan 73’), Cristian Espinoza, Jeremy Ebobisse (Preston Judd 73’).

Substitutes not used: William Yarbrough (GK), Michael Baldisimo, Tanner Beason, Alfredo Morales, Tommy Thompson, Casey Walls.

POSS.: 52.9%; SHOTS: 18 ; SOG: 2; CORNERS: 8; OFFSIDES: 2; SAVES: 2; FOULS: 3; xG: 1.9

PORTLAND TIMBERS: James Pantemis ; Claudio Bravo (Eric Miller 68’), Dario Zuparic, Zachery McGraw, Juan Mosquera; Evander, Jonathan Rodriguez (Nathan Fogaca 87’), Diego Chara (C), David Ayala (Cristhian Paredes 86’), Santiago Moreno (Dairon Asprilla 89’); Felipe Mora (Antony 67’).

Substitutes not used: Trey Muse (GK), Tyler Clegg, Larrys Mabiala, Eryk Williamson.

POSS.: 47.1%; SHOTS: 15 ; SOG: 4; CORNERS: 2; OFFSIDES: 0; SAVES: 1; FOULS: 12; xG: 2.4

EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH LUCHI GONZALEZ

On overall thoughts of tonight’s match:

“I think we imposed ourselves offensively. We created a lot. We got on the ball a lot. I thought we actually defended really well. I know the goal we conceded early first half was a build-up mistake, but not from a lack of effort or intensity. … I thought we imposed second half, started with protagonism, pushing the game. It should have been 2-1 with the chances we were creating. … It’s like this theme that continues to haunt us. It was a good 60 to 70 minutes where we could be winning, we’re imposing, we were actually defending well, and we just lose in a moment. We lose organization and concede. I like the effort of the guys to push at the end and I thought we were deserving of a second goal but it did not happen. We’re going to be disappointed with the common theme and we’ll have to get over it quick, but we need to change this common theme. If we don’t change, the results aren’t going to change.”

On the decision to start Jacob Jackson at goalkeeper:

“Making a goalkeeper rotation and change is never easy. It’s that one position, I’d say center backs and keepers are the hardest positions to just rotate or to make changes because you want that to be as consistent as possible. We saw Jacob really strong in training — really strong with second-team games. Our second team is really important to our development pathway for guys to earn opportunities with the first team. We were conceding goals. William is a fantastic leader with a lot of experience and a very good goalkeeper. … It’s not an easy decision and of course he’s disappointed with that, but at the same time there are opportunities there and we saw we needed to make a change. Jacob was performing well in training and in second-team games and we went for that decision. As a goalkeeper, he’s got a bright future. He still has a good age to keep learning and getting better and that’s the context of the decision.”

On conceding two goals tonight:

“The game is cruel. Because too many times we’ve been in leads or been in good momentum so it could have or should have or deserve to be winning while we’re creating. I love the excitement our guys play with in the attack and courage. I actually really liked our defensive organization. Up until the second goal because the first goal was a giveaway in distribution but we were very disciplined, very compact. We pushed our back line up. We controlled their transition quite well and even when they broke it without numbers behind the ball and protect the box so that goal is a hard one to swallow. We could’ve 100% prevented that. Just a little bit more numbers behind the ball, and more intensity on the ball, and push them out and not allow a free and open cross. You’ve got to do those things that are not easy, and you got to do the things that not everybody wants to do. That sacrifice. That’s how you win. That’s how you get results and so we’re disappointed.”

On making changes amid all the players out of the lineup due to injury:

“The first change that I would like to see develop is get our guys healthy — Daniel healthy, JT [Marcinkowski] healthy, Bruno Wilson healthy, get [Carlos] Akapo back healthy. That’s first and foremost. Get these guys healthy. [Carlos] Gruezo is in the [Ecuador] national team; but at the same time, I know every team is dealing with national call-ups right now, whether it’s Copa America or Euros. Get our roster and our depth as available and ready as possible. We’re aware we don’t talk about playoffs in every moment, but we do in key moments. We’re not going to give up. I’m not going to give up. These guys, what I know about them, the staff, these players, they’re not going to give up. If at some point mathematically it is impossible, then it is what it is, but the only way we can start making playoffs this season or seasons in the future is by taking care of business today and right now. That’s going to be our focus. Staying present and what we control and bringing our best today so that the future can be bright.”

On updates pertaining to Rodrigues and Daniel, as well as Daniel Munie’s performance:

“[Rodrigues] was not cleared for tonight — potentially cleared against LAFC, so that would be good news to have him available. And then Daniel is probably training with us within two, maximum three weeks training and competing with the group, and going from there. Hopefully he’s in our competition goalkeeping and helping our back line and defensive outcomes. But look, I mentioned guys that are injured, and we’d love to have them back competing with us, especially in that back line competition and in goal. But it’s also positive when you see a Daniel Munie who I thought had a strong performance tonight. A young player who has been patient to keep growing and learning from his other center backs and other players. He has speed. He has good physical qualities. But he also showed good build-up. Good confidence on the ball as well. Good in the air as well. I think he’s got a bright future. He’s got good guys next to him like Tanner [Beason], Rodri, [Carlos] Akapo. There’s a lot of cultural differences, but you can see the influence they had on him and he had a good performance tonight overall.”

EARTHQUAKES DEFENDER PAUL MARIE

On having to come in to the match early on:

“We had to do a sub early. Carlos [Akapo] got hurt so I had to step in at the 16th minute. It’s not easy to step in a game like this but it went OK. Obviously, we got scored on early on a mistake but that’s OK. I think the boys responded. We played really well until the 70th minute, and then they had half a chance and they scored. I think that’s the little moments that we need to take care of. I didn’t think they had that much on us, but it was the little details that beat us 2-1 tonight. I thought the team played well. There’s a lot of games that we’ve played well but there’s a switch in our mentality maybe that we need to think of, to work on and be able to be consistent for 90-plus minutes.”

On his second-half goal from long range and feeling the home crowd’s energy:

“It was amazing to feel the fans. … Having the fans behind us is a big plus. I think it’s hard to realize maybe for some people if they’ve only been at this stadium, but when we go on the road, having the crowd pushing for you for 90 minutes is unreal. I was very happy to score the goal, get a second breath for the team. We had that big chance and it felt like it was all coming along and had a happy ending, but it is what it is. I’m really happy to score a goal and help the team, but it would have been better with a win.”

On the team attempting to come together as a collective:

“Nobody showed up in preseason thinking it would go this way. We feel terrible for our fans and people that come to support us week in and week out because we have had the lead in so many games. We gave it all for our fans and for us too to get a result. Obviously, for the guys who are coming in, maybe they were in teams that were successful, and they didn’t have to do as much defensively. Obviously, we’re trying to gather everybody and get everybody on the same page. As of right now we’re not able to click everything together, hopefully we’re able to figure that out. There’s a lot of games left and a lot of positives to take in each game.”

On his and the rest of the team’s mentality:

“My mind is to win games and to be performing. I think Luchi is doing everything he can. He is giving 100 percent, and he’s been perfectly aligned with his message this season all along. Obviously, we’re trying to give it all for him. We would have loved to have better results but as of right now the players just need to focus on winning games and following the plan.”

On the team being able to score goals but not come away with a result:

“It feels like we’re able to turn things around and be more offensive. I feel like we’re being very positive going forward, and unfortunately maybe we don’t score, but then we start to become spread out. We start to have midfielders and No. 10s of the other team start to face us and play balls in behind us. For me, I feel like we start to be over-positive on one side, become stretched, and then in the middle they start to come at us with everything they have. I feel that’s what happened in New York, last game and in this game. Obviously, we’re going to score goals. We have incredible attackers, but we really have to focus and recover and stay in better lines especially in those last 20 minutes.

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:

Ryan Maquiñana – Director, Communications

rmaquinana@sjearthquakes.com

C: 650.243.8523

Jake Jansing – Coordinator, Communications

jjansing@sjearthquakes.com

C: 408.425.1329

Bay FC vs. Utah Royals, June 16, 2024

Bay FC line up for the National Anthem sung by the San Francisco Men’s Gay Chorus celebrating Pride before the NWSL match between Bay FC and the Utah Royals at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Cincinnati FC, June 15, 2024

Former San Francisco Giant Hunter Pence cranks the Earthquake Siren before the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Cincinnati FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

PRESS RELEASE:

June 15, 2024

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 2, FC Cincinnati 4

Visitors surge ahead late after San Jose holds second-half lead; Quakes continue homestand Wednesday vs. Portland

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes fell 4-2 to FC Cincinnati on Saturday night at PayPal Park.

After a scoreless first half, Cincinnati struck first in the 53rd minute when midfielder Pavel Bucha picked off a pass and scored in transition. The Quakes would answer just four minutes later when midfielder Hernán López scored off a rebound in the box.

San Jose would capture the lead in the 72nd minute when Vítor Costa pinged a long ball for winger Cristian Espinoza, who hauled it in and buried it in the back of the net for this third goal of the season. However, the visitors responded with three goals in succession from Yuya Kubo in the 78th, 80th and 87th minutes to pull ahead for good.

The Quakes will now prepare for a midweek home match with the Portland Timbers on Wednesday, June 19. 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

The Quakes are now 1-2-0 against FC Cincinnati in MLS regular-season play and 1-1-0 at home.

San Jose has had the lead at some point in 10 of 17 games in MLS play this season.

With his 57th minute goal, Hernán López stayed hot, notching either a goal or assist in four of his six MLS starts.

Winger Cristian Espinoza scored his third goal of the season, marking his 12th goal contribution of 2024 when paired with his nine assists.

Espinoza and forward Jeremy Ebobisse started tonight’s match, extending their MLS-leading consecutive games played streaks to 92 and 91 games, respectively. Sporting Kansas City’s Daniel Salloi had the third longest record with 69 matches until tonight, when he sat out due to injury.

San Francisco Giants legend Hunter Pence was on hand to fire the ceremonial siren before the game. The four-time Major League Baseball All-Star and two-time World Series champion is part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Bay Area Host Committee Advisory Board and took in his first game at PayPal Park.

FC Cincinnati assistant coach Dominic Kinnear returned to the South Bay. The former San Jose defender served the club as assistant coach for the Quakes’ Audi MLS Cup triumphs in 2001 and 2003, and as head coach, he led the Black and Blue to their first MLS Supporters’ Shield in 2005.

MATCH INFORMATION

San Jose Earthquakes 2-4 FC Cincinnati

Saturday, June 15, 2024 – PayPal Park; San Jose, Calif.

Weather: 63° Clear

Match Officials:

Referee: Lukasz Szpala

AR1: Chris Wattam

AR2: Mike Nickerson

4th Official: Tim Ford

VAR: Younes Marrakchi

AVAR: TJ Zablocki

Scoring Summary:

CIN (0-1) – Pavel Bucha (unassisted) 53’

SJ (1-1) – Hernán López (unassisted) 57’

SJ (2-1) – Cristian Espinoza (Vítor Costa) 72’

CIN (2-2) – Yuya Kubo (Luciano Acosta, Gerardo Valenzuela) 78’

CIN (2-3) – Yuya Kubo (Luciano Acosta, Gerardo Valenzuela) 80’

CIN (2-4) – Yuya Kubo (Luciano Acosta, Obinna Nwobodo) 87’

Misconduct Summary:

CIN – Kevin Kelsy (caution) 66′

SJ – Hernán López (caution) 90+4′

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: William Yarbrough; Tanner Beason, Daniel Munie, Carlos Akapo (Paul Marie 75’), Vitor Costa; Jackson Yueill (C) (Preston Judd 84’), Hernán López, Niko Tsakiris (Alfredo Morales 84’); Amahl Pellegrino (Jack Skahan 75’), Cristian Espinoza, Jeremy Ebobisse (Benji Kikanovic 90+3’).

Substitutes not used: Jacob Jackson (GK), Michael Baldisimo, Tommy Thompson, Casey Walls.

POSS.: 44.7%; SHOTS: 20 ; SOG: 8; CORNERS: 10; OFFSIDES: 0; SAVES: 2; FOULS: 5; xG: 3.2

FC CINCINNATI: Roman Celentano; Nick Hagglund (Gerardo Valenzuela 75’) , Matt Miazga (Kipp Keller 64’), Luca Orellano, Ian Murphy, DeAndre Yedlin; Obinna Nwobodo, Luciano Acosta (C), Pavel Bucha; Sergio Santos (Yuya Kubo 64’) , Kevin Kelsy (Yamil Asad 75’).

Substitutes not used: Alec Kann (GK), Landon Aghedo, Bret Halsey, Alec Kann, Malik Pinto, Alvas Powell.

POSS.: 55.3%; SHOTS: 20 ; SOG: 7; CORNERS: 3; OFFSIDES: 0; SAVES: 5; FOULS: 11; xG: 2.2

EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH LUCHI GONZALEZ

On leading in the second half before FC Cincinnati’s late surge:

“We actually were on the front foot winning 2-1. We were in their half attacking them. … We lost balance in that attack in the transition moment. We lose the ball in the box and even though we had good numbers to defend the tradition we weren’t together enough. We lost duel [after] duel, falling behind, didn’t cover the depth, and they’re dangerous. If you give Lucho Acosta half a second, he plays a one-touch ball behind [Yaya] Kubo and that’s what they’re capable of. The other goal again was we had numbers behind the ball, but Lucho Acosta is driving it and we’re not able to shut him down, and duel and keep him out of the box. It ricochets there to Kubo is opportunistic so that’s the game. The game is won or lost in the box defensively and offensively. When it was 3-2, we got some offensive guys on the field to push the game, and the game opened up. I thought we could have actually scored and made it interesting, possibly 3-3, but it ended up going 4-2, and that’s the risk you take.”

On FC Cincinnati’s team as a whole:

“It’s not one player. They’re a good collective unit. They have three center backs that know their role; they win balls in the air. I thought we did a good job creating isolation with our wingers against their center backs and getting in behind their wing backs. … There’s physicality, speed — they’re a handful. With Lucho Acosta with a free role, you can see how they’re really dangerous. They’re a good team, and we were toe to toe with them until the game got out of our hands in the transition moments. I think the transition moments hurt us at the end of the day, and in the last 15 to 20 minutes of the game that didn’t allow us to get the result.”

On the Earthquakes’ defense over the course of the match:

“We’re a dangerous team that can score in any way. We’ve shown that with the underlying data and we back it up with actual goals. But we needed five goals to win this game. These transition moments where we are attacking are important. I thought we did improve that for the most part until we opened up. You can do things well for 70 minutes, 80 minutes. We saw that last game [vs. New York City FC]. We lost our organization. … Missing two center backs is not easy; losing Bruno [Wilson] and Rodrigues in the same game. … I thought Daniel [Munie], Tanner [Beason] had very good control of this game. They stepped it up, did well. Until it got to that moment where collectively we broke down mentally and tactically and physically. That’s something that we’ve got to fix.”

On the continued push for a playoff spot:

“Our goal for the second half of the season is to be a top-three team in the conference points-wise from this point on. We say that we can’t control the past, but if we’re a top-three team in points for the rest of the season, we’ll get into the playoffs. It’s been historically the trend and it starts with a win tonight. Everybody’s stepping up. Surely we were coming into the game with that mentality. We had that in our hands at some point. It didn’t happen. Cincinnati is a good team. Congrats to them. They’re a very good team and they turn it around on us, and they have talent, and they have had the effectiveness.”

On the team’s mindset after tonight’s game:

“It’s going to hurt because we had the game in our hand until we didn’t. It’s about control. We control the next moment and we’re never going to give up. I’m not going to ever give up. These guys won’t give up. We’re going to learn and keep trying to figure this out. That’s what we can control.”

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:

Ryan Maquiñana – Director, Communications

rmaquinana@sjearthquakes.com

C: 650.243.8523

Jake Jansing – Coordinator, Communications

jjansing@sjearthquakes.com

C: 408.425.1329

San Jose Earthquakes vs Austin FC, May 25, 2024

Major League Soccer’s Match Balls await warmups before the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

PRESS RELEASE:
May 25, 2024

MATCH RECAP:

Earthquakes 1, Austin FC

San Jose earns point at home to snap two-game losing streak; Quakes travel to New York on Friday to face NYCFC

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes drew 1-1 with Austin FC on Saturday night at PayPal Park in front of 13,744 fans.

San Jose found the back of the net early when Jeremy Ebobisse finished Cristian Espinoza’s cross in the 10th minute. The visitors then drew level via Brendan Hines-Ike’s header off a set piece right before intermission. Despite both clubs attempting to find the go-ahead goal in the second half with a late blast from Earthquakes midfielder Hernán López hitting the crossbar, the match would end in a draw, snapping a two-game losing streak for San Jose in MLS play.

The Quakes will now prepare for a road match with New York City Football Club on Friday, May 31. Kickoff from Yankee Stadium is set for 4:30 p.m. PT and will bebroadcast 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).

NOTES
The Quakes are now 2-1-6 against Austin FC in MLS regular-season play and still unbeaten at home (1-0-3). Tonight’s draw snapped a two-game losing streak for San Jose (three in all competitions).San Jose has now led at some point in 11 of 17 games in all competitions (9 of 15 in MLS play).

Jeremy Ebobisse’s fourth goal of the season also tied him with Landon Donovan for third on the all-time club list for goals scored (32). He also netted his fifth time in seven career games against Austin. Cristian Espinoza notched his ninth assist of the season, good for fourth in MLS. It was also his sixth career assist in nine games against Verde. The winger now has 65 career assists in total to extend his club record.

MATCH INFORMATION
San Jose Earthquakes 1-1 Austin FC
Saturday, May 25, 2024 – PayPal Park; San Jose, Calif.
Weather: 59° Sunny
Attendance: 13,744

Match Officials:
Referee: Chris Penso
AR1: Chris Elliott
AR2: Eduardo Jeff
4th Official: Alyssa Nichols
VAR: David Barrie
AVAR: Jozef Batko

Scoring Summary:
SJ (1-0) – Jeremy Ebobisse (Cristian Espinoza) 10’
ATX (1-1) – Brendan Hines-Ike (Owen Wolff) 45’

Misconduct Summary:
SJ – Bruno Wilson (caution) 41′
SJ – Cristian Espinoza (caution) 43′
ATX – Sebastian Driussi (caution) 48′
SJ – Carlos Akapo (caution) 57′
SJ – Vítor Costa (caution) 64′

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: William Yarbrough; Vítor Costa, Rodrigues, Bruno Wilson, Carlos Akapo; Carlos Gruezo (Niko Tsakiris 56’) , Jackson Yueill (C); Hernán López; Cristian Espinoza, Amahl Pellegrino (Jack Skahan 77’); Jeremy Ebobisse .

Substitutes not used: Jacob Jackson (GK), Tanner Beason, Ousseni Bouda, Preston Judd, Paul Marie, Daniel Munie, Alfredo Morales.

POSS.: 48.5%; SHOTS: 23 ; SOG: 7; CORNERS: 8; OFFSIDES: 1; SAVES: 1; FOULS: 10; xG: 3.5

AUSTIN FC: Brad Stuver; Brendan Hines-Ike, Hector Jimenez (Ethan Finley 72’) , Jon Gallagher, Julio Cascante; Dani Pereira (Jhojan Valencia 86’), Alex Ring, Owen Wolff; Sebastian Driussi (C) (Gyasi Zardes 81’), Jáder Obrian (Zan Kolmanic 86’), Diego Rubio .

Substitutes not used: Stefan Cleveland (GK), Guilherme Biro , Matt Hedges, Emiliano Rigoni.

POSS.: 51.5%; SHOTS: 6 ; SOG: 2; CORNERS: 1; OFFSIDES: 2; SAVES: 6; FOULS: 12; xG: 0.7

EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH LUCHI GONZALEZ

On his reflections pertaining to tonight’s match:
“I thought we played with a lot of urgency. I thought the guys were up for the game. We say in the locker room that we want to get PayPal back. We want to make this the place that teams suffer like they did most of last season, and I thought Austin suffered a lot tonight. We had 20-plus shots and created a lot of opportunities. I loved how we played brave to attack, to play forward and get numbers in the box and create chances. That’s a positive. “Defensively I thought in the run of play, we were quite sound. It was great work rate by the 11 players on the field to defend in their mid-block, build pressure, sprint and recover behind the ball when Austin tried to counter. I loved the effort. I thought we let them off the hook. We let them off the hook. We didn’t put away some clear chances, and for maybe three minutes, we’re giving away silly set pieces around our box at the end of the first half. Things that we can avoid. Fouls we can avoid with a little more discipline and a little more control defensively, push them back and not gift them free crosses into our box, and it caught up to us. That was a disappointing few minutes of the game, but when we play with this sense of urgency and this desire to push the game and score and attack, I know we’ll earn points and win more games over the course of time.”

On the Quakes’ attack starting to jell midseason:
“[Amahl] Pellegrino’s a really dangerous winger who can score and set up teammates. He’s working really hard. I really love what I’m seeing in terms of his work rate, to be connected to us defensively. We can still even use him more with his runs in behind, but he’ll continue to score goals in this league. I’m really happy that [Jeremy Ebobisse] got a goal tonight. He played with a lot of conviction and energy. His hold-up [play] was excellent, switching fields for us, drawing fouls. Really good connection with Hernán [López] in the press. And then Hernán could’ve had two goals and two assists. It’s him continuing to do his thing. He’s a high-risk player. There are moments where he can lose balls and he and the team needs to know that the risk-reward ratio is a little higher with him, but when he pulls things off, he’s super-dangerous, and we’re really glad to have him. Cristian [Espinoza] does what Cristian does, with volume of crosses. I think he’d like some of those left-footed shots and get them on frame because he hits them with good power. But I think we have a dynamic attack and I think we’ll continue to be dangerous.”

On being unable to sustain the lead:
“It’s disappointing. … The margins in this league are so close, from winning, losing, even tying. This is the 11th game in 17 [in all competitions] where we’ve had leads. But this tough moment, which has lasted longer than we’d like, it’s going to make us tough. I’m going to keep working, doing my best, and these guys are going to keep working, and that’s the only way we can turn those leads into points.”

On using the defensive performance tonight as a reference point heading into next Friday’s road game vs. NYCFC:
“We allowed six shots, and two on goal. That’s really good for a defensive performance in our league, especially a very good team like Austin who’s doing well. They’re winning games and attacking well. So yes, this is a good standard and reference for us defensively.”

EARTHQUAKES GOALKEEPER WILLIAM YARBROUGH

On his overall thoughts of the game (translated from Spanish):
“I think, from my personal point of view, this is the best game that we have had collectively at home. It seemed like we dominated most of the game. We created quite a few goal opportunities, and that is what calms us down a bit. If we continue down that path playing like we did today, we’ll win and we’ll win more than we’ll lose. Obviously, defensively it was a notable improvement today. Practically spaces weren’t left open. That speaks highly of how well the 10 players in front of me were doing. … To not get the results we want is frustrating, but if we continue this way it will go well.”

On earning the point at home but wanting more:
“I want to win every game. When you’re at home with your fans, seeing that they’re making the effort to come to these games. … Playing the way we did tonight and not being able to give them three points, which we feel like they deserve and we deserve, it’s a frustrating feeling. Knowing where we are in the standings and playing the way we did tonight, we felt like we deserved three points, but this game isn’t about deserving; it’s about going out there and taking the points. Tonight, unfortunately it didn’t work that way for us, but I am at peace of mind knowing that if we continue to play the way we did tonight, sooner or later things will turn around for us.”

On finishing the third straight week with two games on the schedule:
“We train very hard to make sure that we have the legs to play as many games as we need to, whatever time span that it is. We have a good group of guys and I feel like we have enough depth to where we can have a competitive squad for 90 plus minutes. If it has to be every three, four days, so be it. At the end of the day, we’re professional athletes. We have to take care of our bodies on and off the pitch.

“I know that there are times where we can sense a bit of that fatigue, and that’s just where we need to step it up mentally. That’s where you have to show a little bit of that extra concentration so that when that fatigue steps in you know you can still focus and not become sloppy on the ball and in decision making. That is 100 percent just concentration. It is a frustrating feeling. What do we do? We soak it in. We analyze the video. We learn from what we did right, what we did wrong, and use that in training. Let it out in training.”

On the biggest takeaway from tonight heading into next Friday’s road game vs. NYCFC:
“The intensity. You saw guys throwing themselves in front of shots. When [Austin FC] were circulating the ball and getting into those wide spots how quick we were to shift and close the space down. A lot of times when they got into our final third it felt like they didn’t have much time to think about what their next option was going to be. The intensity that the guys showed tonight—that’s what I stick with.####

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:

Ryan Maquiñana – Director, Communications
rmaquinana@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.243.8523

Jake Jansing – Coordinator, Communications
jjansing@sjearthquakes.com
C: 408.425.1329