WASHINGTON (Ticker) -- The D.C. United, who have played in every MLS Cup and won three of the league's four championships, are out of the playoff race.

The United suffered a 1-0 loss to the San Jose Earthquakes, who got a second-half goal from Khodadad Azizi and barely remained alive in the playoff chase.

D.C. United (6-16-6, 24 points) won the league's first two MLS Cups and were stunned by the expansion Chicago Fire in 1998 before reclaiming the title last year.

However, they have struggled all year and were mathematically eliminated tonight. At least eight other MLS teams will finish the season with more than 36 points, the most the United can accumulate.

San Jose rookie goalkeeper Jon Conway earned his first MLS victory, turning away nine shots.

After a shaky performance by both squads in the first half, the Earthquakes finally found the back of the net in the 53rd minute. Defender Dan Calichman started the scoring run with a one-touch pass to midfielder Ryan Tinsley at the right edge of the United penalty area. Tinsley surprised the defense with a well-timed heel pass that sent Azizi on goal.

With two defenders converging on him, the Iranian cut into the box and squeezed a low six-yard shot between goalkeeper Tom Presthus and the right post. The goal was Azizi's third of the season and first game-winner.

Despite the win, San Jose (6-14-8, 26 points) is on the verge of elimination. It must win all of its remaining matches and hope Colorado, Miami and New England do not eclipse 38 points. The Earthquakes have two games remaining against the powerful Los Angeles Galaxy.