In a crucial Week 23 clash of Major League Soccer, the San Jose Earthquakes demonstrated their strength at home, clinching a 2-1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps FC this Saturday. The crowd witnessed an early breakthrough for the Earthquakes as Josef Martínez converted a penalty in the 53rd minute, giving his team a vital lead.
However, the Whitecaps responded with tenacity, equalizing the score through a skillful effort by Preston Judd, who found the back of the net in the 48th minute of the second half, creating a tense atmosphere for the fans. But just when it seemed that the match would end in a tie, San Jose struck again with a last-minute goal from Preston Judd, sealing the 2-1 win.
Preston Judd’s performance was nothing short of exceptional as he contributed significantly to his team’s success by scoring the decisive goal. Dejuan Jones also stood out for the Earthquakes, showcasing solid play throughout the match.
San Jose’s head coach Bruce Arena opted for a 3-4-3 formation, featuring Daniel in goal; the defensive trio of Daniel Munie, Bruno Wilson, and Dave Romney; a midfield comprising Dejuan Jones, Mark-Anthony Kaye, Beau Leroux, and Vitor Costa; and an attacking trio of Cristian Espinoza, Cristian Arango, and Josef Martínez.
On the opposing side, coach Jesper Sorensen deployed a 4-3-3 formation with Yohei Takaoka guarding the net; Édier Ocampo, Bjorn Utvik, Tristan Blackmon, and Mathías Laborda in defense; Jean-Claude Ngando, Sebastian Berhalter, and Andrés Cubas in midfield; and a forward line of Emmanuel Sabbi, Brian White, and Jayden Nelson.
The match was officiated by referee Timothy Ford.
Looking ahead, the San Jose Earthquakes will host San Diego FC in their next fixture, while the Vancouver Whitecaps FC will welcome the Portland Timbers to their home ground.
Substitutions for San Jose Earthquakes
82’ 2H – Josef Martínez replaced by Noel Buck
83’ 2H – Cristian Arango off for Ousseni Bouda and Beau Leroux off for Preston Judd
92’ 2H – Vitor Costa exited for Jamar Ricketts
Yellows for San Jose Earthquakes:
31’ 1H – Daniel Munie (Holding to stop the opponent’s advance)
15’ 2H – Dave Romney
31’ 2H – Mark-Anthony Kaye
35’ 2H – Bruno Wilson
54’ 2H – Cristian Espinoza
Substitutions for Vancouver Whitecaps FC
33’ 1H – Jean-Claude Ngando off for Tate Johnson
46’ 2H – Emmanuel Sabbi replaced by Daniel Rios
75’ 2H – Andrés Cubas off for Ralph Priso
85’ 2H – Mathías Laborda off for Belal Halbouni and Jayden Nelson off for Jeevan Badwal
Yellows for Vancouver Whitecaps FC:
19’ 1H – Édier Ocampo
28’ 2H – Mathías Laborda
Red card for Vancouver Whitecaps FC:
27’ 1H – Édier Ocampo (Red for second yellow card)