Chromaniacs: a San Diego FC Podcast
Craig Elsten
Chromaniacs is the independent San Diego FC podcast the world has been waiting for! Join veteran broadcasters Craig Elsten and Tony Sanchez, along with Chromatic FC substack author Alex Peña for a weekly look at what's happening with SDFC and MLS. Each podcast gives an overview of SDFC's most recent match, discussion topics surrounding the club, a look at supporter cuture for SDFC, and a preview of the next match. Recording on Thursdays. Support Craig: patreon.com/padreshottubSupport Tony: sandiego.futbolSupport Alex: chromaticfc.substack.com
Episodes
S2E28: Mailbag Edition + SDFC/NYRB Preview
On this week's edition of The Chromaniacs: Your questions, our answers! We asked for mailbag questions on our Instagram account, and we go through them all, from a possible SDFC mascot to Mikey Varas to possible new formations!Training Ground Sound: head coach Mikey Varas sounds his most defeated, while Anders Dreyer says they can "100%" make the playoffsWhat can SDFC expect across the country against New York Red Bulls?
S2E27: What Happened in Austin??
Craig, Tony and Alex are back to explore one simple question: how the heck did SDFC put that result up on the board last Saturday at Austin? The Chrome and Azul played a horrible first half, turned on a dime to build a 3-0 lead, then gave up three goals in just over ten minutes to put the most disappointing draw in SDFC history up on the board, 3-3. Even worse: what if a team loses and there is no one in the media there to cover it? The show ends with a discussion of how the conglomeration of traditional media leads to a need for independent coverage if fans want real discussion of SDFC. (Apologies from the crew for intermittent audio issues in this one)
S2E26: Is the 3-4-3 Formation Going to Save the SDFC Season?
On tonight's episode of The Chromaniacs:Alex joins us live from Austin, Texas!What's more likely, SDFC making Is the 3-4-3 the future of SDFC?The Chromados will be missing key players against Austin thanks to the international breakTraining Ground Sound: Mikey Varas/Ian Pilcher/Sam VinesSDFC-Austin FC preview
Chromaniacs Postgame Show: San Diego FC 2, Inter Miami 2
Lionel Messi scored, but Anders Dreyer's brace was enough for SDFC to salvage at 2-2 draw at Miami...with lots of help from goalkeeper CJ Dos Santos. On this edition of the Chromaniacs Postgame Show, Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña sift through a match that revealed glimpses of 2025's success, but long looks at the defensive issues that have plagued San Diego all season long.
S2E25: Hot Times, Ice-Cold SDFC
SDFC played two matches in some of the hottest weather they have ever experienced this week, but their performances left The Chromaniacs feeling cold. On this episode, Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña discuss: Too-few chances in a 1-0 loss at Orlando CitySDFC's mid block letting them down as opponents go over the topDefenders going all-out to keep the loss at one goal instead of 3-0 or 4-0A disastrous start to Wednesday's 3-2 home loss to San JoseSDFC's red card problems are back in a big wayCan anyone handle the #9 position with Ingvartsen injured?Post-match sound from a crestfallen Mikey VarasMatch Preview: the hottest team in MLS is coming to SD on Sunday, Philadelphia Union (and Milan Iloski)
S2E24: Transfer Window Closes with Late Adds for SDFC
On this week's episode of The Chromaniacs: We react to the departures of Luca Bombino and Lewis Morgan.....and to the additions of Sam Vines, David Mimbang and Cédric Bakambu!How much has SDFC improved over the summer transfer window? What were the biggest moves in the Western Conference?Training Ground Sound: Mikey Varas and Amahl PellegrinoSDFC to play in US Open Cup in 2027Preview: SDFC at Orlando City
The Chromaniacs Postgame Show: San Diego FC 3 LA Galaxy 1
What a night at Snapdragon Stadium! Craig, Alex and Tony got together LIVE on YouTube Saturday night after SDFC's dramatic 3-1 victory over LA Galaxy. A night of redemption for Mikey Varas and Tyler HeapsAnders Dreyer with three assists, the King of Beating LAChucky's long-term replacement (Achouri) and short-term replacement (Pellegrino) BOTH find the back of the net for San DiegoSD fans booing every Chucky touch of the ballA rough night for the head refereeJeppe Tverskov lets his emotions get the best of himPost-match sound from Varas, Dreyer and CJ Dos Santos
S2E23: It's Time for Chucky Bowl I! Complete SDFC-LA Galaxy Preview
Craig Elsten, Alex Peña and Tony Sanchez gather for a full-bodied episode of The Chromaniacs! On this jumbo preview episode: Is this the most important regular season match in SDFC's young history? Is Chucky providing cover for the rest of LA Galaxy as they invade San Diego? How SDFC's front office put their reputation on the line with this loan and its impactIs Manu Duah heading toward a new contract extension?What's the reason behind SDFC's 17% drop in attendance season-over-season?Training Ground Sound: Anders Dreyer, Anibal Godoy, Mikey VarasWhat to expect when SDFC and LAG lock boots on the pitch
The Chromaniacs Postgame Show: San Diego FC 3, Colorado Rapids 0
The Chromaniacs went LIVE late on Saturday night after an SDFC 3-0 victory over Colorado Rapids! The win pushed Los Chromados within a single point of the playoff line. Craig Elsten, Alex Peña and Tony Sanchez (who was live from Snapdragon Stadium) came on the air to discuss: A complete team victory in a must-win matchThoughts on lineup moves: Valakari back to a false-9 position, Godoy back in the midfield, Murphy over McVeySDFC being opportunistic in the first half and capitalizing on Colorado errorsMan of the Match Gabriel Pirani netting for the second time this weekThe first MLS start (and goal!) for Elias AchouriPost-match Sound from head coach Mikey Varas, Achouri and PiraniNow, it's on to the Chucky Bowl!
S2E22: Does SDFC Need More to Make the Playoffs?
On this week's episode of The Chromaniacs, with Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña...A look back at SDFC's 3-1 loss away on Wednesday at PortlandWhen will San Diego be able to deploy their front line at full strength for a full match?Is time running out on a playoff run without some wins getting stacked?Gabriel Pirani scores his first SDFC goalIs this roster enough, or does Tyler Heaps need to add more before the window closes?Post-match sound from head coach Mikey VarasSaturday night preview: SDFC hosts a *very good* (just as Mikey) Colorado Rapids team that is not as good away from mile-high
The Chromaniacs Postgame Show: San Diego FC 1, Los Angeles FC 0
Win of the year? Win of the year! Craig Elsten and Tony Sanchez got together late Saturday night after SDFC took down LAFC 1-0 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, dealing the Black and Gold only their second MLS home loss of the season. We discuss: SDFC's dominant possession game against LAFCHow a 0-0 draw would have still been a great result...but 1-0 is much better!Incredible defensive contributions from Luca Bombino, Manu Duah and CJ Dos SantosLAFC's center back losing his mind to allow a late penaltyA costly double yellow card late against Anders Dreyer and how it could impact the week ahead
S2E21: Leagues Cup Review + LAFC Preview
The Chromaniacs are back with a brand-new episode!SDFC accomplished three important things in Leagues CupA look back at the SDFC-Xolos and SDFC-Puebla matchesTony spends time in the supporters sectionShould Vasquez and Alvarado move into the starting midfield?Training Ground Sound: Mikey Varas, Dagur Dan Thorhallsen, Chris McVeyDid LAFC empty the tank in Leagues Cup? Can SDFC take advantage on Saturday night?
S2E20: Chucky to Galaxy, Leagues Cup Starts with Blowout in CDMX
The Chromaniacs (Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña) intended to record this week's show after the SDFC-Club América match, but it was so lopsided (0-3 at halftime) that the boys went ahead and recorded during the second half. On this week's show...We start with Leagues Cup talk. This team just isn't built for altitude, is it?Mikey Varas goes to a five-man back line, and the defense gets worse?How the next two Leagues Cup matches might go, and how much SDFC could/should put into Xolos on SundayThen, to the thing everyone wants to hear us talk about, Chucky to LA for the rest of the podcast
The Chromaniacs Postgame Show: San Diego FC 1, Minnesota United 1
For the first time, The Chromaniacs did a live remote broadcast for the Postgame Show! Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña were live on the patio outside Hopnonymous Brewing off Convoy Court, breaking down SDFC's 1-1 draw against Minnesota United FC. We were invited by the San Diego Riptides supporters group! Among the discussion topics: A 1-1 draw that felt like a bit of a gift thanks to a questionable penalty callThe lineup still has a ways to go to get to the club's best elevenMan of the Match: C.J. Dos Santos, for some dynamic saves to preserve the pointRiptides president Matthew Buse joins us on stage with his match thoughts and moreWith 4-of-9 points since the break, SDFC is kind-of righting the ship?Leagues Cup is next and the boys have ideas on how SDFC should handle it
S2E19: Not a Mini-Task to Face Minny
On this week's episode of The Chromaniacs, with Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña...The Chromaniacs are hitting the road for a special live show on Saturday night, details inside!MLS 3.0? The league weighs new rules to make team building simpler, Alex breaks down the possible changesSDFC has added new players, but when will we actually see them on the field, and, who's going to leave to make room for the additions?Sign Guy threatens two more years of flyovers if SDFC doesn't bring back Chucky!Training Ground Sound: head coach Mikey Varas and new right back Dagur DanSDFC-Minnesota United FC preview
The Chromaniacs Postgame Show: San Diego FC 1-0 FC Dallas
Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña gathered live on YouTube after a 1-0 SDFC win over FC Dallas!The Chrome and Azul got back to form, controlling possession and moving the ball wellA blistering goal from Alejandro Alvarado outside the 18 gave SDFC the leadOnni Valakari had a chance (or chances) to double the leadManu Duah almost gave the result away with a late turnover but made up for it with a brilliant defensive scrambleDid FC Dallas use the right tactics to break down SDFC's attack?Post-match sound from head coach Mikey Varas and midfielder Alejandro Alvarado
S2E18: SSDD--Same Stuff, Different Day
San Diego FC came out of the summer break and laid an egg. The 1-0 loss at Colorado featured very little offense, more turnovers out of the back, and another second-half stoppage time goal to steal away a result. On this episode of The Chromaniacs, Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña...Go through the highlights and lowlights of Wednesday's lossHow can SDFC get more out of their midfield?Head coach Mikey Varas puts it on the ref, was a penalty deserved against Colorado?Looking ahead to Saturday, hoping it will be a diffferent day AND a different result
S2E17: Second Half Kickoff! Who's New, Who's Coming, and Second-Half Preview
The Chromaniacs are back for the second half of the MLS season! Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña start off with some World Cup chatter, then dig into the first moves made by San Diego FC in the summer transfer window. Is there another left wing coming in for a third DP spot? What's (not) happening with Chucky? And how will two new veteran adds, in the midfield and back line, help SDFC find a new gear? Then, a look at the challenge ahead for a club sitting in 12th place in the Western Conference, how many points will it take to reach the playoffs? We hear training ground sound from Tyler Heaps, Mikey Varas and new midfielder Gabriel Pirani. Lastly, a look at Wednesday night's away match against Colorado Rapids. We'll be back with a new episode on Thursday, and a live post-match show on YouTube after SDFC/Dallas FC on Saturday night!
The Chromaniacs Postgame Show: San Diego FC 2-4 Vancouver Whitecaps
SDFC ended the first half of their season with a thud, dropping a 4-2 decision to the top team in MLS right now, Vancouver Whitecaps. Brian White had two goals and two assists to power the 'Caps victory, while youngsters David Vazquez and Brian Zamblé found the net for San Diego. Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez (live from Snapdragon Stadium) and Alex Peña (checking in from vacation in South Korea!) got together late on Saturday night to recap the loss, discuss the trends that defined the first half of the San Diego FC season, and to hear post-match comments from head coach Mikey Varas.
S2E16: Terrible SDFC Memes Joins the Show/SDFC-Vancouver Preview
On this week's episode of the Chromaniacs...Brandon (Terrible SDFC Memes) joins us for the first half-hour of the show!Memes tells us about his experience last week as Keeper of the FlowWhat are the expectations for the summer window?Training Ground Sound: Varas--Ingvartsen--AlavardoSDFC-Vancouver preview, last match before the break!
The Chromaniacs Postgame Show: San Diego FC 3-3 Cincinnati FC
OH SO FRUSTRATING! SDFC played a wild up-and-down match against FC Cincinnati, rallies from 2-1 down in the second half to take a last-second 3-2 lead...but it wasn't the *very last* second. Cincy got one more kickoff and scored an equalizer in the final 13 seconds of the match to snatch two points away from the Azul and Chrome. Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez (live from Snapdragon Stadium) and Alex Peña talked through the entire match in front of a big crowd live on YouTube, including another bravura performance from Marcus Ingvartsen, wonderful assists from youngsters Soma and Saidi, and some great saves on both sides of the pitch. But what happened on that final sequence? Hear post-match sound from head coach Mikey Varas, midfielder Pedro Soma and forward Marcus Ingvartsen.
The Chromaniacs Postgame Show: San Diego FC 5, Austin FC 0
A win! A win! SDFC, for the first time in over two months, won a MLS match, thoroughly dominating Austin on Wednesday night by a 5-0 score. San Diego found new scoring options through a huge performance from David Vazquez, notable contributions from Pedro Soma and Alex Mighten, and consistent work from the Danes at the top of the attack. SDFC's defense held an over-rotated Austin lineup off the scoresheet, with Duran Ferree coming up with the one big save he needed in the first half. Live on YouTube on Wednesday night, Craig, Tony and Alex went through all the storylines of the match, and heard post-match sound from Mikey Varas and Marcus Ingvartsen!
S2E15: Special Guest Matt Doyle Joins the Show + SDFC-Seattle Preview
On this week's episode of the Chromaniacs...Special guest Matt Doyle (from Tactics-Free Zone, formerly mlssoccer.com) joins Craig and Alex for a half-hour to discuss the volatility of MLS, and what the veteran writer sees as the pitfalls for a second-year franchiseThen, Tony joins the show and we go through this week's Training Ground Sound, hearing from Mikey Varas, Amahl Pellegrino and Anibal GodoySDFC at Seattle this Saturday, can the battered and young Azul and Chrome find a result against an organized and well-playing Sounders side?
Chromaniacs Post-Match Show: San Diego FC 2-2 LAFC
Oh, so frustrating! San Diego FC played their best match in over a month on Saturday night, led LAFC 2-0 after eighty minutes, and somehow settled for a 2-2 draw. Why? A confluence of misfortune, starting with captain Anibal Godoy being taken off the pitch just long enough for LAFC to use his missing presence and score their first goal of the match. Then, in his return to play after missing months with facial fractures, goalkeeper CJ Dos Santos was put in a difficult spot in the 94th minute, dove to gather the ball...and got KICKED IN THE FACE. AGAIN. Duran Ferree came off the bench, and five minutes later LAFC found a controversial equalizer (was that a handball??) on a corner kick. Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez (live from Snapdragon Stadium) and Alex Peña break down all the key moments of the match and hear post-match sound from head coach Mikey Varas, captain Anibal Godoy and brace-scoring forward Marcus Ingvartsen.
S2E14: Injuries or System? What's Going Wrong for SDFC?
On this week's show...How does SDFC replace the injured Jeppe Tverskov in the lineup?What's going wrong in season two, is it simply the injuries and red cards?How much is SDFC's system on trial?Folks, Mikey Varas and Tyler Heaps aren't leavingTraining Ground Sound from VarasSDFC-LAFC preview, are the Azul and Chrome catching LAFC in a trap game?
S2E13: Hard Times!
SDFC has lost a franchise-worst four straight matches in MLS, and if you go back to Champions Cup, the drought is even longer. Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña get together and discuss:Two more dispiriting lossesHow can the club keep playing Osvald Søe?Another red card lol at least it wasn't a defenderMikey Varas post-Houston soundHow can SDFC improve their team right now?Is it time for a change at keeper?SDFC-Portland previewLike the show? Check out our live post-match shows on YouTube, and leave a five-star review!
Chromaniacs Postgame Show: San Diego FC Blown Out by RSL 4-2
Tony Sanchez, Alex Peña and Abraham Zepeda got together on Saturday night after a disappointing 4-2 loss at Real Salt Lake to discuss early defensive breakdowns, a possible change in goal going forward, the lack of defensive depth crushing SDFC's chances, and much more. Craig was on assignment at the Padres-Angels game, and it looks like he was the lucky one on this night!
S2E12: Seeing Red (Cards)
This week on Chromaniacs: SDFC has taken six red cards in six matches, what the heck is happening here?Has SDFC gotten *too* young?The club is using young players at a globally-high rateTraining Ground Sound: Mikey Varas--Luca Bombino--Anibal GodoySDFC-RSL preview
The Chromaniacs Post-Match Show: Minnesota United 2, SDFC 1
Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña got together late Saturday night after another disappointing SDFC result, a 2-1 home loss to Minnesota United. The guys discuss:SO MANY RED CARDSA young defense getting exposedIs SDFC lacking a playmaker?Post-match sound from head coach Mikey Varas and captain Jeppe Tverskov!
S2E11: Is SDFC's Young Roster Catching Up to It? (SDFC-SJ Review, SDFC-Minnesota Preview)
On this week's show:SDFC posts one of their worst all-around performances last weekend in San Jose, we break down the film and spot some mistakes beyond the obviousMikey Varas and Jeppe Tverskov are questioned by SanDiego.Futbol's Chiva at trainingThe guys look ahead to a revamped Minnesota side visiting SDFC Saturday at Snapdragon Stadium
S2E10: VAR Audio, Dreyer's Disappointment, SDFC-San Jose Preview
On this week's episode: Shocking released VAR Audio from the RSL match shows just how unwilling the head referee was to call an obvious handball and PKAnders Dreyer experiences the highs and lows of international play as Denmark comes up one step short of the World CupTraining Ground Sound from Mikey Varas and Lewis MorganA complete SDFC-San Jose Earthquakes preview. Will this be SDFC's toughest test so far in MLS?
#37 S2E9: SDFC-RSL Recap, Mo Salah Rumors and More
On this week's episode of the Chromaniacs, Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña discuss: A 2-2 draw to RSL at home, disappointing or expected given the club's heavy schedule?Post-match sound from Mikey Varas and Marcus IngvartsenIs Manu Duah going to be poached by a European team in the summer?Should Zamblé go on loan if he's not going to play for SDFC that much?Mo Salah is leaving Liverpool, what are the odds he comes to San Diego? If you enjoy the show, please offer a five-star rating and kind review!
#36 S2E8: San Diego FC 0-4 Toluca FC Reactions, SDFC-RSL Preview
Craig, Tony and Alex got together on Thursday evening to go over all the latest SDFC news:A look back at Wednesday's humbling 4-0 loss at TolucaWill a crushing defeat have any knock-on effects as the team returns to MLS play?What lessons, if any, can be gleaned from the result?Post-match sound from Mikey Varas and Antonio MohamedRSL is a quality side with some top striking talent, how does SDFC match up?How will Mikey Varas rotate his lineup for the fourth match in 12 days?
Chromaniacs-2 Balls and a Mic Crossover: SDFC 3 FC Dallas 3 reactions; SDFC-Toluca Leg Two Preview
The Chromaniacs joined 2 Balls and a Mic live on Monday night to go over the weekend's SDFC news and action! The guys got into the 3-3 draw at FC Dallas and what it revealed about the club heading into Toluca. Then, a LOT of talk about the second leg of the tie, why Durran Ferree is now the obvious starting choice in net, what tactical moves Mikey Varas could make, and general predictions on how the night could go.
Chromaniacs Post-Match Show: San Diego FC 3-2 Toluca FC (CONCACAF Champions Cup)
Down a goal, down a man, San Diego FC accomplished something few in the soccer world thought possible, beating Toluca 3-2 on Wednesday night at Snapdragon Stadium. While the road to advancing remains steep, SDFC's win playing 10-on-11 and then 9-on-11 stands as one of the best in franchise history, if not *the* best. On this episode, which aired live on Thursday, March 12, 2026, Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña went through some of the heroes of the match: Durran FerreeManu DuahLuca BombinoAnders Dreyer...and so many more!Plus, how will Mikey Varas adjust his lineup against FC Dallas on Saturday night, and what is he willing to risk to keep legs fresh for the high altitude of La Bombanera next Wednesday? Then, we hear post-match sound from Mikey Varas, Antonio Mohamed, Anders Dreyer and Luca Bombino!
Chromaniacs Post-Match Show: SDFC 1 Sporting KC 0
Craig Elsten, Alex Peña and SanDiego.Futbol's Abraham Zepeda got together live on YouTube Saturday night for the Chromaniacs Post-Match Show after a San Diego FC 1-0 victory away at Sporting KC. Durran Ferree started in net for the third straight match and delivered a third straight clean sheet, making two huge saves at the end of the match to seal the victory. Anders Dreyer scored for San Diego and SDFC kept the heat on the Kansas City net with multiple scoring chances. Now, with Toluca looming, how does the club reset for CONCACAF Champions Cup play on Wednesday?Tony Sanchez was away for this one but dropped in at the halfway point, and inadvertently ended our live broadcast, splitting the post-match show in two on YouTube! Here, we have spliced both halves together. But if you're wondering why we make so many jokes at the expense of "Tony the Torpedo" in the second half of the show, that's why!
#35 S2E7: On the Road Again
ON THE SHOW TONIGHT:San Diego FC heads on the road for the first time this seasonFour matches in 11 days! How will Mikey Varas rotate his lineup, and when?Is Durran Ferree the full-time starter in net now, or does Sisniega get the next chance?Leagues Cup schedule is enticingAnders Dreyer second-fastest player in MLS history to 20-20TRAINING GROUND SOUND: Mikey Varas--Chris McVey--Amahl PellegrinoSDFC-Sporting KC Preview!
Chromaniacs Post Match Show: San Diego FC 2-0 St. Louis City FC
The Chromaniacs (Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez, Alex Peña) gathered Sunday night after SDFC's 2-0 win over St. Louis City SC for the Post Match Show! Things are going swimmingly for San Diego, with two wins in two tries to start the MLS campaign. On the show, we discuss: Duran Ferree getting the surprising start in net (and a second straight clean sheet!) The shutdown performance of Manu Duah at center backMarcus Ingvartsen showing SDFC fans the promise we heard about going back to last seasonAnders Dreyer (#10) becoming the tenth different SDFC player to score, on the tenth goal of the seasonYouth and depth powering SDFC into a place as one of the top clubs in all of MLS!
#34 S2E6: Extensions All Around + St. Louis City SC Preview
On this episode of the Chromaniacs, Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña discuss: Tyler Heaps contract extensionSDFC's keyword is continuityWe discuss, then you hear from, Heaps, Marcus Ingvartsen and Durran FerreeCould there be a starting GK competition very soon?Preview of Sunday's match against St. Louis
Chromaniacs Postgame Show: SDFC Dominates CF Montreal 5-0 in 2026 MLS Opener
The Chromaniacs gathered LIVE on YouTube Saturday night after SDFC ran roughshod over CF Montreal 5-0 at Snapdragon Stadium. Everything is coming up chrome and azul right now, as the Chromados dominated the match from start to finish. Among the guys' discussion topics: The spectacular late debut of Zamblé, who scored four minutes into his careerMarcus Ingvartsen coming up strong with a goal and an assistAnders Dreyer finding the space for a pair of assistsDuran Ferree winning at age 19 in net for SDFCAmahl Pellegrino scoring and avoiding injury after a scary tackle that earned Montreal a red cardPost-match sound from head coach Mikey Varas, Duran Ferree and midfielder Anibal Godoy!Make sure to subscribe to the Chromaniacs feed on YouTube to be notified every time the guys go live with post-match coverage of SDFC!
#33 S2E5: San Diego FC 2026 MLS Season Preview!
The Chromaniacs gathered on YouTube on Thursday, February 19 to look at the key discussion topics heading into the 2026 MLS campaign. SDFC gets things started at home on Saturday night against CF Montreal. SDFC about to add Zamblé, but who leaves the roster to make room?We're almost to Opening Night and Chucky is STILL here, what's next?Who are the young players on the roster we expect to take a big step up this season?What could be a roster surprise?Pundits weigh in across the country, over/unders on SDFC season point totalsSDFC must take advantage of a weaker schedule in the first halfTraining Ground Sound: Mikey Varas SDFC/CF Montreal preview!
Postgame Show: SDFC Suffers--and Advances--at Pumas UNAM
The Chromaniacs (Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez & Alex Peña) got together live on YouTube to discuss SDFC advancing through the first round of the Concacaf Champions Cup, losing away to Pumas 0-1 but taking the two-leg tie 4-2. Among the items discussed:A remarkable shot-stopping performance in net from Pablo SisniegaA game for the veteran mids to take controlPumas had their chances early and didn't convertPellegrino hits the postSDFC had to play out-of-style and suffer in order to advance...and they did!
CCC Leg One Post Game Show: San Diego FC 4-1 Pumas UNAM
SDFC is back on the pitch and The Chromaniacs are back with another live postgame show! Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña got together in the witching hour on Tuesday to break down SDFC's 4-1 win over Pumas UNAM, grabbing secure control of the first-round series before it heads to Mexico next week. In the show...Pumas scores on a true golazoRelentless pressure from SDFCIs the cross a new weapon this year for Los Chromados?Mikey Varas post-match soundsVaras substitutions click, Mighten and Vazquez score off the benchManu Duah and Chris McVey impress on defenseVAMOS SDFC!
#32 S2E4: SDFC-Pumas Champions Cup Preview (Special Guest: Cesar Hernandez)
Special guest Cesar Hernandez from ESPN joins us for the entire show!We get Cesar's thoughts on the SDFC roster, and of course, the latest on the Chucky sagaWould SDFC ever give in and play Lozano?Complete SDFC-Pumas preview...should the Chromados be favored to win this round?
S2E3: SDFC 2026 Roster Preview
On this episode of The Chromaniacs...It's all quiet on the Western front as SDFC hunkers down and preps for Pumasfewer than 10 days left to resolve the Chucky situationCould SDFC afford to just pay Chucky to leave?Roster preview: forrwards, midfielders, defenders, goalkeepers!
S2E2: Chucky Drama Continues--Varas and Dreyer Extensions--Community Kit Leaked
On this week's episode of The Chromaniacs...NO va a jugar...Mikey Varas makes it plain that Chucky Lozano won't be with SDFC, but Chucky says he wants to stay? The drama continues...Mikey Varas gets an *undefined length* multi-year contract extensionAnders Dreyer gets his deal re-worked through 2029Training Ground Sound from Varas--Jeppe Tverskov--Dreyer--Lewis MorganNews on a new SDFC trialist, and scrimmage scheduleThe Community Kit was leaked and it is...something.
EMERGENCY PODCAST: Chucky Lozano OUT at SDFC (Round Table with SanDiego.Futbol)
SDFC Sporting Director Tyler Heaps revealed on Friday morning that Chucky Lozano was no longer in the club's sporting plans. On Friday evening, the Chromaniacs (Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña) were joined by SanDiego.Futbol's Abraham Zepeda to break down what was said by Heaps and head coach Mikey Varas, and the implications going forward for SDFC. A must-listen show!
S2E1: The Chromaniacs are Back!
The Chromaniacs are back for season two! Join Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña throughout 2026 as they cover the latest news and offer the latest views on San Diego FC and MLS!On this week's show::Expectations for SDFC coming off the best inaugural year in MLS historyWhat does SDFC have left to do before the season begins?Why is Chucky Lozano not in the club's social media posts? Concern-o-meter!Luca lands in Charlotte, St. Claire moves to Miami, we look at MLS roster movesMore youth coming to San Diego's roster with Søe?
#28: Is Lewis Morgan the Answer at 9? End-of-Year Thoughts and More!
It's the last Chromaniacs of 2025 (unless something crazy happens)!Lewis Morgan trade, is he the answer at the 9 position?Kieran Sargeant trade, added depth to the back lineMLS Superdraft resultsSDFC opting out of Coachella ValleyEnd-of-year thoughts on SDFC's remarkable first season
#27: Messi wins MLS Cup--SDFC Draws Pumas in CCC--Pellegrino's Back
Craig Elsten, Tony Sanchez and Alex Peña got together on Thursday, December 11 to record the latest episode of The Chromaniacs! On the show tonight...MLS season ends with Messi holding the Cup, and Vancouver bracing for possible relocationSDFC draws Pumas, a Liga MX top-four side, in the opening round of the Concacaf Champions Cup, the guys react to an early trip to Mexico CitySDFC announces a number of end-of-year roster moves, we go through them allSalah to SD? Don't count on it anytime soonWhat does the return of Amahl Pellegrino mean for Chucky Lozano next season?Who's Alex Peña's #1 dream free agent signing?