Quakes Blank Union, Off to Best Start in Franchise History

San Jose Earthquakes remain perfect with 1-0 win over Philadelphia Union

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The San Jose Earthquakes defeated the Philadelphia Union 1-0 on Saturday night, remaining perfect with a 3-0-0 record to start the 2026 season - the best three-game start in franchise history. Ousseni Bouda scored the lone goal on an assist from Timo Werner, while goalkeeper Daniel recorded his third consecutive clean sheet for the Quakes. The Union, who won the Supporters' Shield in 2025, continued to struggle offensively and suffered their second home loss of the young season.

Why it matters

The Earthquakes' strong start is a significant turnaround from their 10th-place Western Conference finish in 2025 when they conceded 63 goals. Their improved defensive form has been key to their early success. Meanwhile, the Union are trying to rebound after parting ways with four starters from their 2025 Supporters' Shield-winning team.

The details

Bouda scored the game's only goal in the 59th minute, finishing off a low diagonal pass from Werner, who had just come on as a substitute. Werner, formerly of RB Leipzig and Tottenham, recorded his second assist in as many games off the bench as he works to regain full match fitness. Philadelphia had several good chances in the first half, but Earthquakes goalkeeper Daniel made key saves to preserve the clean sheet.

  • The game was played on Saturday, March 8, 2026.
  • The Earthquakes' goal was scored in the 59th minute.

The players

Ousseni Bouda

The San Jose Earthquakes forward scored the game-winning goal.

Timo Werner

The Earthquakes substitute recorded his second assist in as many games off the bench.

Daniel

The Earthquakes goalkeeper recorded his third consecutive clean sheet.

Andre Blake

The Philadelphia Union goalkeeper made three saves in the match.

Indiana Vassilev

The Philadelphia Union midfielder had a shot saved by Daniel in the 85th minute.

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What they’re saying

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

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The Earthquakes' strong defensive start to the season has been a key factor in their best three-game opening in franchise history, while the Union are still trying to find their footing after significant roster turnover from their 2025 Supporters' Shield-winning campaign.