Where to Watch San Diego FC vs Los Angeles FC: MLS Commentary Team Revealed

Football fans in the UK looking to catch the exciting Major League Soccer clash between expansion side San Diego FC and reigning champions Los Angeles FC will need to tune into MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. The match kicks off at the unusual time of 03:30 UK time on Sunday, March 30, 2025 - perfect for night owls or early risers wanting their football fix.

Unlike Premier League matches which are broadcast across Sky Sports, TNT Sports and Amazon Prime, or UEFA competitions shown on ITV and BBC, MLS coverage in the UK is exclusively available through Apple's streaming service. This represents part of MLS's groundbreaking 10-year, $2.5 billion deal with Apple that began in 2023.

The Commentary Team

Leading the commentary for this California derby will be the experienced Jake Zivin, one of MLS's most recognisable voices. The Portland-based announcer has been the lead commentator for Portland Timbers broadcasts since 2013 and called multiple MLS Cup finals. Zivin's rapid-fire delivery and ability to capture big moments have made him a fan favourite across the league.

Joining Zivin in the booth will be former US international Taylor Twellman, who brings both playing pedigree and years of punditry experience. The ex-New England Revolution striker, who scored 101 MLS goals before concussions forced his premature retirement, has become one of American soccer's most prominent analysts through his work with ESPN. His partnership with Zivin has developed excellent chemistry over several seasons.

What to Expect From the Match

This match represents an intriguing early-season test for both clubs. Expansion side San Diego FC, owned by Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Mansour, are playing their inaugural MLS season after paying a reported $500 million expansion fee. They've assembled an interesting squad blending young Mexican talent with experienced European players.

They face a stern test against Los Angeles FC, the 2022 and 2024 MLS Cup champions who boast one of the league's most star-studded rosters. With former Real Madrid striker Denis Bouanga leading the line and Italian legend Giorgio Chiellini (now retired) having helped establish their winning culture, LAFC will be heavy favourites despite being the away side.

How to Watch in the UK

British viewers can access the match through Apple TV's MLS Season Pass, which requires either a monthly subscription (£14.99/month) or annual pass (£99/year). The service offers every MLS match live and on-demand, with no blackout restrictions. While the unusual kickoff time may limit the live audience, the match will be available to watch back in full afterwards.

For fans accustomed to the familiar faces of British football coverage like Gary Neville, Jamie Carragher or Ally McCoist, the American commentary style of Zivin and Twellman offers a different but equally insightful perspective. Their deep knowledge of MLS and connections across the league often provide access to behind-the-scenes information British commentators might miss.

With the MLS growing in popularity among UK fans thanks to increasing coverage and high-profile signings like Lionel Messi (though he now plays for Inter Miami), this late-night/early-morning fixture offers a chance to see the next wave of American soccer's development under the bright lights of a California derby.