The LA Galaxy will host the San Jose Earthquakes at Dignity Health Sports Park in Los Angeles on August 19, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. PT in the 106th edition of the California Classic, a longstanding Major League Soccer rivalry dating back to 1996. Historically, the Galaxy hold a 40-29-19 edge in regular-season meetings against San Jose.
LA Galaxy enter the match following a challenging run on the road, most recently falling 1-0 to the Houston Dynamo. The team has bolstered its lineup with summer acquisitions including Kyōgo Furuhashi, who debuted as a starter, and designated player forward Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, who is expected to make his home debut against the Earthquakes.
Additional reinforcements are anticipated with former FC Barcelona captain Sergi Roberto set to join the roster soon. Designated player Joāo Klauss has recovered from injury and is ready to return, while Robert Taylor continues integrating into the team. Goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski, formerly of San Jose, was instrumental in the last Galaxy-Earthquakes encounter by saving a penalty in stoppage time to secure a draw.
The Galaxy aim to convert their recent roster upgrades into improved performances and climb the Western Conference standings as the 2026 MLS season progresses.
CSB Take
This 106th California Classic represents a critical moment for the LA Galaxy to extend their dominance in one of MLS’s most historic rivalries. Hirving Lozano’s home debut offers fresh attacking options, and the return and arrival of key players like Joāo Klauss and Sergi Roberto could provide the depth needed to overcome recent adversity. Success in this match could set the tone for a strong finish to the Galaxy’s season and energize their bid for playoff positioning.
Source: Original report
