San Diego FC’s dream season continued Sunday night with a 2-1 victory against the Portland Timbers in Game 1 of their best-of-three first-round Major League Soccer playoff series on a festive, star-studded night at sold-out Snapdragon Stadium.

Just without the face of the franchise.

Mexican star Hirving “Chucky” Lozano didn’t start or play – or suit up, for that matter – in the latest indication that the rift with coach Mikey Varas has not fully mended. But not having Lozano flying down the left wing does not equate to unproductive or losing soccer for SDFC, at least not lately.

Since Lozano was subbed at halftime of the penultimate regular-season game, SDFC has three convincing wins and outscored opponents by a combined 10-2. Sunday night’s win, while not nearly as convincing as the 4-

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