The Baja Cup is back. San Diego FC hosts Club Tijuana (Xolos) at Snapdragon Stadium on September 16, 2026 for the second installment of an annual cross-border rivalry that’s unlike anything else in American soccer. Two cities, one border, one stadium. The 2025 edition delivered a 4-2 SDFC win and a packed, electric crowd — expect more of the same.

The Rivalry

San Diego and Tijuana are separated by about 20 miles and the busiest land border crossing in the world. The two cities share a regional soccer culture that predates either club, and the Baja Cup is built around that reality. SDFC and Club Tijuana entered a five-year partnership in 2025 — the first of its kind between an MLS club and a Liga MX club — with an annual friendly at Snapdragon Stadium as the centerpiece.

The inaugural 2025 match set the tone. SDFC trailed twice and came back both times, eventually running out 4-2 winners on goals from Alex Mighten, David Vazquez, Manu Duah, and a Right to Dream guest player. Vazquez was named Player of the Match after scoring and assisting. The crowd was loud, the atmosphere was genuine, and a real rivalry was born.

About the Teams

San Diego FC

San Diego FC completed the most successful expansion season in MLS history in 2025 and has continued to grow into one of the league’s compelling clubs. Playing at Snapdragon before their home supporters, SDFC will be looking to defend Baja Cup bragging rights on familiar turf. Check the 2026 SDFC schedule for the full season picture.

Club Tijuana (Xolos)

Club Tijuana competes in Liga MX, Mexico’s top flight. Founded in 2007, the Xolos rose quickly — winning their first Liga MX title in the Apertura 2012 — and have built a fanbase that spans both sides of the border. Expect a healthy contingent of red-and-black in the stands at Snapdragon.

Why September 16

The date is deliberate. September 16 is Mexican Independence Day — one of the most significant dates on the calendar for Mexican and Mexican-American communities throughout the region. Scheduling the Baja Cup on this date is a direct nod to the cultural ties between San Diego and Baja California, and it tends to supercharge the atmosphere inside the stadium.

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Planning Your Visit

Parking

• Complete parking guide
• Pre-purchase parking — recommended; this draws a big cross-border crowd
• Lots open 3 hours before kickoff
• SDFC season ticket members receive 30% off parking

Getting There

• Address: 2101 Stadium Way, San Diego, CA 92108
• Trolley to Snapdragon Stadium — Green Line to SDSU Stadium Station ($2.50/ride)
• Directions & traffic tips
• Rideshare info — drop-off near Gate 1
• Bike parking
• Nearby hotels
• Nearby bars & restaurants
• Tailgating guide

Stadium Entry

• Entry gates — five gates to enter Snapdragon Stadium
• Clear bag policy — max 12”×6”×12” or small clutch (4.5”×6.5”)
• Prohibited items list
• Water bottles allowed at sporting events (sealed, factory-fresh)
• Cashless venue — credit/debit and mobile pay only
• Mobile ticketing — download before you leave home
• Snapdragon Stadium app

Food, Drinks & Amenities

• Food & drink options
• Seating chart & best seats
• 3D seat viewer
• Sun and shade map
• Kids & family info
• San Diego FC team store
• Lost & found
• A-Z venue guide

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More Information

• San Diego FC team guide
• Complete 2026 SDFC schedule
• 2026 season tickets
• Official San Diego FC website
• Official Club Tijuana website