San Diego FC outplays Vancouver Whitecaps in their first encounter

MEGAN SWAIN/ GATG

For the first time since their expansion, Vancouver Whitecaps took on San Diego FC on June 25 at BC Place. This was a match between the best in the west, San Diego trailing by only 2 points as the Whitecaps held the first place in the league.

Once kick off began, San Diego proved to be a challenging team. With quick feet and coordinated moves, they dominated the attacking third early on. 

This led to 2 goals, just 2 minutes apart by Milan Iloski. The first strike came on the 35’ followed by another at the 47’. The Whitecaps defence was too far apart, and not enough men were guarding the net.

Édier Ocampo gave the Whitecaps a glimpse of a comeback after scoring in the ‘43. This was his first goal in the MLS 2025 season. Yet Iloski was fast to strike again, extending the lead with yet another goal in the ‘44.

Not satisfied with his hat trick, Iloski managed to score 1 more time just 1 minute after the second half began. The Whitecaps were falling short to San Diego’s smart plays and quick decisions. 

Mathías Laborda gave the Whitecaps a push forward, scoring in the ‘67. Being 2 goals behind, the Whitecaps had to stick to the strategy placed during half time. The team began to take more risks. This was visible in how they got control of the attacking third.

But San Diego took advantage of the added minutes, further extending their lead by a goal from Thomas Angel.

With many Whitecaps players being out for their international teams, Antoine Coupland from Whitecaps FC 2, took the main stage. He managed to secure his first MLS goal during his debut right before the whistle blew in the 6’ of added time.

The Vancouver Whitecaps unfortunately fell to a 5-3 match, giving San Diego their first win against the club. Their next home game takes place July 9, 2025 at BC Place against the Valour FC in the Canadian Championship.