San Diego FC is playing its first-ever MLS game this weekend in a primetime matchup that adds a new layer to the city's "Beat L.A." mantra.Why it matters: The historic game against LA Galaxy officially kicks off SDFC's 2025 inaugural season as the newest franchise in a league that's rapidly grown to 30 teams in 30 years.

The Galaxy may be the defending champs, but they'll look considerably different than when they slayed the NY Red Bulls 2-1 in the MLS Cup final last December. Striker Dejan Joveljic is in Kansas City, Riqui Puig is out with a long-term injury, and Joseph Paintsil is still working back from a shorter-term issue.