What to Expect from FC Dallas

Flying high after last week’s commanding win against Real Salt Lake, Minnesota United heads south to take on FC Dallas. The Toros are sitting at third in the Western Conference after just three games, but they crashed out of the CONCACAF Champion’s League this week with a heartbreaking loss in stoppage time to Pachuca.

How they’ll score:

Luckily for Minnesota, Argentine playmaker Mauro Diaz is still out with an Achilles injury. FCD still has no shortage of attacking talent, such as forward Maximiliano Urruti who leads the team with three goals this season. Urruti is able to work off of target forward Cristian Colman. It isn’t likely that Dallas can produce big numbers in the goal categories this season, but they only have four from their first three matches. If/When they do score, it stems from opportunities created by attacking fullbacks, namely right back Hernan Grana and winger Michael Barrios. Their primary tactic is to wear the opposition down on the wings. Finishing crosses has been a bit of an issue, but with other attackers like breakout Kellyn Acosta, FC Dallas has plenty of ways to find the back of the net on Saturday.

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How they’ll concede:

As an MLS Cup contender, this isn’t a side that is going to give away goals too easily, especially with center back duo Matt Hedges and Walker Zimmerman. Their biggest weakness comes from set pieces and crossing. More often than not poor marking results in a loose ball or defender inside the box. If Minnesota United can convert opportunities off of defensive mistakes snagging a goal or two is a real possibility.

What to expect for a lineup:

FC Dallas will likely line up in a 4-4-2, but they're still expected to put out a top-level lineup.

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Other factors:

If you consider morale to be a game-changing factor, listen up. Minnesota United is feeling confident after the victory last weekend, while FC Dallas is mourning a loss in Mexico during the midweek. Dallas may have the home-field advantage, but the Loons have confidence.

Form (all competitions): WDWWL

Top Scorer: Maximiliano Urruti, 3

Top Assists: Roland Lamah, 1

Huge thanks to the wonderful folks at Big D Soccer who provided us with in-the-know information! If you want to read their thoughts on Minnesota United, that can be found here. Come on you Loons!