Overview
- Five different scorers powered the win at Snapdragon Stadium: Christopher McVey (14'), Amahl Pellegrino (45+2'), Onni Valakari (53'), Marcus Ingvartsen (59') and debutant Bryan Zamblé (85').
- Montréal defender Tomas Aviles was sent off in the 50th minute after a VAR review for a dangerous tackle on Pellegrino, leaving the visitors down a man.
- Nineteen-year-old goalkeeper Duran Ferree earned a clean sheet in his first MLS start, stepping in with CJ do Santos still out injured and Pablo Sisniega suspended.
- Head coach Mikey Varas praised Ferree’s composure and highlighted the strong contributions from young players on opening night.
- Zamblé, an 18-year-old Ivorian signed three days earlier from the club’s Right to Dream pathway, scored late on his debut as SDFC began 2026 with improved home form; Sisniega is expected back March 1 vs. St. Louis City SC.