On April 22, 2023, Real San Jose and San Leandro United locked horns in a high-octane NSL Pacific match as both rivals aimed to outclass the other. The game took place at the iconic PAL Stadium, where the weather was perfect for a soccer showdown–clear skies and a gentle breeze. Both teams had their players performing in top-notch form. Real San Jose lined up with their key players, including the dynamic duo of Lluis Dolade and Hector Herrera, while San Leandro United boasted the skilled Kevin Elvir and a sturdy defense.

First Half: Scoring Onslaught
The first half saw both teams clashing for possession with an intensity that kept the crowd on the edge of their seats. It was Real San Jose who struck first when Dolade headed a cross from the left, setting up Herrera to smash a close-ranged shot past San Leandro's goalkeeper. RSJ looked to be in control. However, San Leandro United proved to be equal to the task when Elvir found the back of the net with a long-range shot that eluded Real San Jose's goalkeeper, Juan Carlo Fuentes. This stunning equalizer was followed by another goal from Dolade, who rifled a rolling cross from Yasid Alvarado into the net shortly before halftime.

Second Half: A Dramatic Turn of Events
The second half saw a stunning goal from Elvir, who notched another equalizer for San Leandro United with an impressive 19-yard free-kick. Late in the game, a controversial moment unfolded when Dolade was brought down in the penalty box from behind. Real San Jose vehemently appealed for a penalty kick, but the referee waved away their protests, much to the frustration of the home team.

Post-Match Reactions

The final whistle blew with a hard-fought 2-2 draw, and both teams walked away with a point in a highly competitive fixture. RSJ had more chances to score than SLU but failed to find the game-winner. The key point in the game was undoubtedly the referee's decision not to award Real San Jose a penalty, which could have potentially given them a late advantage.

Upcoming Matches
As Real San Jose prepares for their next match against Richmond Sol at MLK Park, fans will undoubtedly be eager to see how RSJ responds to this draw. Meanwhile, RSJ will also return to PAL Stadium to host Marin County FC Union on May 6, with kickoff set for 7:00 PM.

Real San Jose's U18 team and San Leandro United's U18 team played the first-ever NSL U18 match before the senior-level encounter. The new league is set to kick off in a couple of weeks, with more U18 teams encouraged to join the fun-filled competition.