May 24, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; LA Galaxy fans cheer during the first half against San DIego FC at Snapdragon Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Abe Arredondo-Imagn Images
San Diego, California – A heated new soccer rivalry in Southern California turned violent Saturday night when fans of the LA Galaxy and San Diego FC clashed in the stands following a 2-1 victory for San Diego at Snapdragon Stadium.
Videos circulating online show dozens of supporters from both clubs engaging in a physical altercation moments after the final whistle. The brawl, which erupted in the stands, quickly drew the attention of security and prompted a heavy response from police in riot gear. Local news outlets report the fighting continued into the stadium’s parking lot.
According to the San Diego State University Police Department, which has jurisdiction over the stadium located on the SDSU campus, one person sustained minor injuries, though they were not directly related to the fights. As of Sunday, no arrests had been made.
“We remain committed to maintaining a secure environment during campus events and appreciate the public’s cooperation as we continue to assess the situation,” SDSU Police said in a statement.
The violent scenes marred what should have been a triumphant day for San Diego FC, the newest MLS expansion team. The club has now defeated the Galaxy twice this season — a point of frustration for LA supporters, whose team remains winless through 15 games despite entering the year as reigning MLS Cup champions.
In a joint statement released Sunday morning, both clubs condemned the violence and vowed to work with local law enforcement and stadium officials to identify those responsible.
“San Diego FC and the LA Galaxy are united in our efforts to foster a safe and welcoming environment for all fans attending our matches,” the teams said. “There is no room for violence in our sport… Any behavior found to be in violation of the MLS Fan Code of Conduct will result in disciplinary action, which may include stadium ejections and bans.”
This marks the second time in less than two months that San Diego fans have been involved in postgame violence. In April, a similar clash broke out after a match against LAFC, prompting San Diego FC to reiterate its commitment to fan safety.
With San Diego’s addition, Southern California now boasts three passionate MLS fanbases — Galaxy, LAFC, and San Diego FC — intensifying regional rivalries both on and off the pitch.
San Diego FC will return home on May 31 to face Austin FC at Snapdragon Stadium, where security protocols are likely to be under added scrutiny.
