SAN JOSE, Calif. — The San Jose Earthquakes hit the road for the first time this season to face the Philadelphia Union on Saturday afternoon. Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m. PT. The match will stream globally on Apple TV and air locally on KSFO 810 AM (English) and La Kaliente 1370 AM (Spanish).
After two dominant home wins, the Black and Blue look to carry that momentum into a cross-country matchup on Matchday 3. With five goals scored and none conceded, San Jose has opened a season with consecutive clean-sheet victories for the first time in club history. The strong start has sparked optimism around the club, but Saturday’s road test in Philadelphia will provide a clearer measure of how sustainable that form may be.
Through two matches, the Quakes have been dominant on both sides of the ball. Their five goals have come unanswered, underscoring an improved defensive structure led by a pair of former MLS SuperDraft first-round picks in Daniel Munie and Reid Roberts. It’s a promising foundation for a young team eager to establish consistency early and carry that momentum forward. Daniel, one of the premier goalkeepers in MLS, is back in form despite not being tested much with two shots on goal faced in the opening two games.
San Jose’s scoring has been balanced across the lineup. Goals from Preston Judd, Munie and Ousseni Bouda reflect the team’s multifaceted approach in the attacking third, while winger Jamar Ricketts has assisted Judd in back-to-back matches. Beyond their wide play, the Quakes have also been dangerous on set pieces, creating chances for players across multiple lines to find the scoresheet.
Even with the attack already in rhythm, the arrival of a proven international star raises the ceiling even higher. For a team that has opened the season in stride, the addition of Timo Werner adds another dimension and a measure of star power to the attack.
Werner needed just one moment to make an impression in the South Bay. Eighteen minutes after coming off the bench, the German international assisted on the insurance goal to help seal San Jose’s second consecutive home win. With his pace and experience adding another layer to the offense, it will be interesting to see how his role expands as the season progresses.
The Philadelphia Union is still seeking its first win of the season and have yet to score through two matches. Despite the slow start, the Union remains a threat, bolstered by several standout players and promising Homegrown Players capable of shifting momentum. Midfielder Dániel Gazdag has been one of the league’s most productive attacking players, highlighted by a 20-assist campaign in 2025. Outside back Kai Wagner poses a danger on the flank with his crossing ability and service on set pieces. In goal, Andre Blake continues to anchor the back line as one of MLS’s most reliable shot-stoppers, coming off a 2025 season with nine clean sheets.
For San Jose, Saturday is more than just Matchday 3—it’s an opportunity to make a statement. Facing their first road test of the season, the Earthquakes will aim to show their early success is no fluke and that the momentum built can travel as well as it thrives at PayPal Park.
MATCH PREVIEW: Quakes Aim to Test Early-Season Road Form Against Philadelphia Union
