SAN DIEGO — Josef Martínez scored early in the first half and a stingy defense led by goalie Daniel made it stand up as the San Jose Earthquakes edged first-place San Diego FC 1-0 and moved into a playoff spot on Saturday night.

Martínez used an assist from Cristian Arango — his seventh — in the 14th minute to score for the 13th time this season, tying him with Arango for most goals on the team. It’s also the most goals Martínez has scored since he totaled 27 in 2019 while playing for Atlanta United.

The Earthquakes (10-14-8) and FC Dallas are now tied for the final playoff spot in the MLS’ Western Conference with 38 points, but Dallas has a match in hand while the Quakes have just two remaining matches.

“I give our guys a lot of credit. It was a great effort. It wasn’t pretty,” San Jos

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