Pablo Sisniega Returns to Goal for San Diego FC
The goalkeeper recorded seven saves in a 2-2 tie against the LA Galaxy on Saturday.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Soccer
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Goalkeeper Pablo Sisniega made his first start for San Diego FC since March 14, logging seven saves in a 2-2 tie against the LA Galaxy. The match was part of a physically demanding week that forced head coach Mikey Varas to rotate his starting lineup.
Why it matters
The draw keeps San Diego FC in the hunt for a postseason berth, though the team currently sits five points outside the ninth Western Conference playoff spot. With four matches remaining, maintaining defensive consistency remains critical for the club's playoff aspirations.
Pablo Sisniega made seven saves during the draw, a notable performance for his return to the pitch. San Diego FC enters the final stretch of the season with an 8-12-10 record.
The players
Pablo Sisniega
He is a professional soccer goalkeeper currently under contract with San Diego FC through 2027.
Mikey Varas
He serves as the head coach for San Diego FC and is responsible for managing the club's tactical decisions and player rotation.
Manu Duah
He is an emerging talent for the club who holds the ninth position on the MLS 22 Under 22 list.
The details
Coach Mikey Varas utilized a rotated lineup against the LA Galaxy to manage player fatigue following a dense schedule of matches. Substitutes Jeppe Tverskov, Marcus Ingvartsen, and Amahl Pellegrino provided fresh legs during the second half of the contest.
Timeline
March 14, 2026: Pablo Sisniega made his previous start for the club.
October 14, 2026: San Diego FC tied the Houston Dynamo 3-3.
October 17, 2026: San Diego FC played the LA Galaxy in Carson, California.
Season Trajectory
The reliance on a deep rotation reflects the club's strategy to navigate a physically demanding season while pushing for the Western Conference playoffs. This outcome keeps the team in contention, though their playoff position remains dependent on results in the final four matches.
San Diego FC remains five points out of the final playoff spot with only four regular-season games left on the schedule. The team's 8-12-10 record leaves little margin for error as they aim to close the gap in the Western Conference standings.
The takeaway
Goalkeeper stability is a key factor for San Diego FC as they enter the final weeks of the regular season. Implementing disciplined rotation strategies may help the team maintain physical fitness during their critical playoff push.
Further reading
For more news and analysis on the club, visit San Diego Soccer.
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