MLS Kit assignments for FC Dallas vs Seattle, Round One, Game Two. (Courtesy MLS)
The exhilarating clash between FC Dallas and Seattle Sounders continues in the 1st Round of the playoffs, and both teams are hungry for victory. Seattle took Game 1 with a 2-0 scoreline, but the series is far from over. FC Dallas now prepares to host Game 2 on Saturday at Toyota Stadium at 8 pm CT.
An Intense Showdown in the Making
This best-of-three series is a true test of resilience, with no room for ties or goal difference. Each game must be won or lost, and the first team to secure two victories will advance to the next round. If any game is tied after 90 minutes, it will be decided by dramatic kicks-from-the-spot.
This matchup marks the 6th meeting between these two clubs in the playoffs, a testament to their longstanding rivalry that dates back to 2014.
Broadcast Info
For those tuning in, the game will be available to watch for free on Apple TV. Max Bretos and Brian Dunseth will provide the English commentary, while Sergio Ruiz and Miguel Gallardo will guide the Spanish-speaking audience. If you prefer radio coverage, you can listen to the game on 1190 am or through the FC Dallas App, with Ryan Figert, Steve Davis, and Jon Arnold on the call. Alternatively, you can catch the Spanish radio broadcast on TUDN 1270AM, featuring Carlos Alvarado and Rafa Calderon.
Predicting FC Dallas' Lineup
As we look ahead to Game 2, there are several factors to consider regarding FC Dallas' lineup. Facundo Quignon's return is still questionable, although Coach Nico Estevez notes that he is fine to be in the selection. However, given his recent return from injury, it's uncertain if he will start. Bernard Kamungo was on a 25-minute restriction in the previous game, so it may be too early for him to earn a spot in the starting lineup.
With Alan Velasco out for the year, it's worth recalling the 3-1 victory against RSL back in September when Paxton Pomykal embraced the free role. Additionally, Liam Fraser's solid performance in Game 1 makes him a promising candidate for the midfield position.
The bench prediction includes Jimmy Maurer, Sam Junqua, Facundo Quignon, Bernard Kamungo, Sebastian Lletget, Jesus Jimenez, Eugene Ansah, Jose Martinez (or Amet Korca), and Dante Sealy.
Injury/Player Availability Report
Here's an overview of the injury and player availability status for both teams:
FC Dallas
- OUT: Tarik Scott (season-ending injury)
- OUT: Geovane Jesus (right knee season-ending)
- OUT: Alan Velasco (knee)
- QUESTIONABLE: Jose Martinez (foot)
- QUESTIONABLE: Facundo Quignon (upper leg)
- International Duty: Nolan Norris
- International Duty: Antonio Carrera
Seattle Sounders
- OUT: Reed Baker-Whiting (L Hamstring Strain)
MLS Kit Assignments
FC Dallas will don their iconic red and blue kits for the game, while Seattle Sounders will showcase their primary green and blue uniforms. Don't miss the dazzling presence of Maarten Paes in his solid black attire, complemented by his signature red gloves.
More Game Info
Here are some additional intriguing details:
- FC Dallas has lost only 1 of their last 13 home matches against Seattle (8-1-4).
- FC Dallas boasts a record of 3-0-7 in their last 10 home games.
- Seattle is in good form, with a 3-0-3 record in their last 6 road games.
- Goalkeeper Stefan Frei achieved his 15th clean sheet in MLS play this year during Monday's game.
- Seattle Head Coach Brian Schmetzer secured his 16th postseason victory on Monday, placing him third in MLS history behind celebrated coaches Bruce Arena and Sigi Schmid. His .761 winning percentage is the highest among all coaches with at least 10 playoff victories.
- Jordan Morris scored his seventh career postseason goal in Monday's match.
- FC Dallas allowed the third-fewest goals in MLS this season (37) and ranks second in Goals Against Average (GAA) with 1.03.
- FC Dallas showcased incredible resilience this season, scoring 19 points from losing positions, the highest among all teams.
- FC Dallas found the net most frequently (11 times) during the 76-90 minute interval, ranking third in MLS.
- FC Dallas' defense was solid on the road, conceding only 20 goals, one of the lowest in the Western Conference.
- Jesus Ferreira's impressive tally of nine multi-goal games in MLS is second only to Jason Kreis (10) in FC Dallas history.
- Maarten Paes ranks second in MLS for save percentage (77.7%) and is third in goals against average (1.00) among goalkeepers with more than 10 games played.
The battle between FC Dallas and Seattle Sounders promises to be a captivating encounter. Tune in to witness the drama, skills, and determination as these two teams fight for a spot in the next round of the playoffs.
