Earthquakes Beat Atlanta 2-0 in Werner's Debut

Star signing assists on a goal in his MLS debut as San Jose records second straight shutout win to start season.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 3:07am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In his MLS debut, new San Jose Earthquakes signing Timo Werner provided an assist as the Quakes defeated Atlanta United FC 2-0 at PayPal Park. It was the second consecutive shutout victory to open the season for San Jose, who haven't had a winning record since 2013. Striker Preston Judd scored the opening goal in the 24th minute before Werner set up Ousseni Bouda for the second goal in the 79th minute.

Why it matters

The Earthquakes are hoping Werner, their biggest signing in club history, can help turn the team around after years of struggling. His debut performance is an encouraging sign as San Jose aims to end its long playoff drought.

The details

Werner, a 29-year-old German international, was acquired by the Earthquakes in late January and is signed through June 2028. He missed the team's first match due to a visa delay and the birth of his first child. In the 79th minute, Werner received a pass from Jack Skahan, beat Atlanta defender Enea Mihaj, and then whipped in a cross that Ousseni Bouda tapped in to make it 2-0. Judd had opened the scoring in the 24th minute, converting a cross from Jamar Ricketts.

  • The Earthquakes (2-0-0) recorded their second straight shutout win to open the 2026 MLS season on March 1, 2026.
  • Werner made his Earthquakes debut in the 61st minute, replacing striker Preston Judd.

The players

Timo Werner

A 29-year-old German international who was the Earthquakes' biggest signing in club history, acquired in late January 2026 and signed through June 2028.

Preston Judd

The Earthquakes' striker who scored the opening goal in the 24th minute.

Ousseni Bouda

The Earthquakes player who scored the second goal in the 79th minute off an assist from Timo Werner.

Enea Mihaj

The Atlanta United FC center back who was beaten by Timo Werner on the play that led to the second Earthquakes goal.

Lucas Hoyos

The Atlanta United FC goalkeeper who passed the ball directly to the Earthquakes' Jamar Ricketts, leading to the opening goal.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

The takeaway

The addition of star striker Timo Werner appears to be paying immediate dividends for the San Jose Earthquakes, who have opened the 2026 MLS season with two straight shutout victories. If Werner can continue to produce and the team's defense remains stout, the Earthquakes may finally be able to end their long playoff drought.