The exciting MLS Western Conference matchup between Vancouver Whitecaps vs San Jose Earthquakes is scheduled for Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 3:00 PM PT (6:00 PM ET). Hosted at BC Place in Vancouver, British Columbia, this clash features the playoff-clinched Whitecaps aiming to build momentum ahead of the postseason against a San Jose Earthquakes side fighting for a playoff spot in their final road game of the regular season.
Vancouver Whitecaps FC has secured a playoff spot and is riding high after captain Ryan Gauld’s return from a nearly seven-month knee injury in their recent match.
The team hosted the 2025 TELUS Canadian Championship Final and continues to focus on youth development amid a strong home record. Injuries remain a concern, with Bjørn Inge Utvik (hip, late October), Tristan Blackmon (MCL, late November), and others sidelined, but Gauld’s comeback boosts their attacking options as they prepare for the playoffs.
San Jose Earthquakes come off a 1-0 shutout win over San Diego FC, bolstering their playoff hopes as they sit ninth in the West. Key updates include midfielder Hernán López undergoing successful shoulder surgery, expected to miss three to four months, and youth players Cruz Medina, Edwyn Mendoza, and Kaedren Spivey called up for international duty.
The team has shown resilience but faces challenges with injuries to players like Sam Rogers (muscle) and Kellyn Acosta (muscle), aiming to capitalize on road opportunities.
Vancouver Whitecaps vs San Jose Earthquakes MLS Match Preview: Date, Time, Predictions, and More
As the 2025 MLS regular season concludes, this BC Place encounter is pivotal for Vancouver Whitecaps FC to fine-tune for the playoffs while San Jose Earthquakes fight for postseason survival.
Vancouver’s strong home form and recent momentum contrast with San Jose’s gritty shutout wins, promising a competitive match with potential for goals in this Western Conference battle.
Team News and Analysis
Vancouver Whitecaps FC welcomes back Ryan Gauld from injury, but faces absences like Bjørn Inge Utvik (hip) and Tristan Blackmon (MCL). Their depth has been tested, with a focus on maintaining an unbeaten streak at home. Coach Vanni Sartini will emphasize attacking play to overwhelm San Jose’s defense.
San Jose Earthquakes deals with Hernán López’s long-term shoulder injury and international call-ups for youth stars. Their recent shutout highlights defensive improvements, but road vulnerabilities persist. Coach Ian Russell aims for counters to exploit Vancouver’s high press in this crucial fixture.
Vancouver Whitecaps vs San Jose Earthquakes Head-to-Head Record
Vancouver Whitecaps FC holds a slight edge in the head-to-head against San Jose Earthquakes, with 13 wins to San Jose’s 12 and 14 draws across 39 meetings.
Matches average around 2.7 goals, often featuring competitive play. Their most recent encounter in August 2025 saw San Jose win 2-1.
| Date | Competition | Result | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 9, 2025 | MLS Regular Season | San Jose Earthquakes 2-1 Vancouver Whitecaps | PayPal Park |
| (Historical Average) | MLS | Vancouver Wins: 13, Draws: 14, San Jose Wins: 12 | Various |
Vancouver Whitecaps vs San Jose Earthquakes Predicted XI Lineups
Vancouver Whitecaps FC Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
- Takaoka; Ocampo, Laborda, Priso-Mbongue, Johnson; Badwal, Cubas; Gauld, Kreilach, Picault; White.
This lineup leverages Gauld’s return for creativity and White’s scoring threat, focusing on home dominance.
San Jose Earthquakes Predicted XI (3-4-3):
- Daniel, Floriani, Munie, Roberts; Kikanovic, Harkes, Navarro, Richmond; Verhoeven, Ebobisse, Pellegrino.
San Jose’s formation emphasizes defensive solidity with counters, adapting to absences.
Key Players
For Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Ryan Gauld’s return adds midfield magic, while Brian White leads the attack with consistent goals. Yohei Takaoka provides goalkeeping reliability.
The San Jose Earthquakes rely on Jeremy Ebobisse for scoring threat and Amahl Pellegrino for wing play, with Daniel in goal crucial for saves.
Match Prediction
Vancouver Whitecaps FC is predicted to win 2-1, capitalizing on home form and San Jose’s road struggles, with a 64% chance of victory. Expect over 2.5 goals given historical averages and both teams’ attacking tendencies.
Where to Watch the MLS match Vancouver Whitecaps vs San Jose Earthquakes
In the USA, the Vancouver Whitecaps vs San Jose Earthquakes match will be available to stream exclusively on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV.
Coverage starts at 3:00 PM PT, with additional streaming on fuboTV. For live scores and highlights, check ESPN or the official MLS website.