Our long wait - an offseason of monumental change for FC Dallas - is almost over.
FC Dallas plays Houston Dynamo in Houston to kick off what should be an incredible new season for Major League Soccer. I have to admit - because of the enormous investments and inter-league trades - my curiosity is piqued for a whole bunch of teams. We might see one of the most competitive seasons ever.
But tonight, we turn our attention to FC Dallas and get to see this new look squad in action for the first time in competitive play.
Here are my three questions since there is so much we still don’t know about how Eric Quill and a newly constructed FC Dallas roster is going to approach things.
Will the defense show improvement?
I highlighted this before, but FC Dallas’ defense must improve if the team is going to get back into the playoffs this season. With preseason behind them, though, there are still lots of questions if this unit can gel, integrate new pieces, and show up big. Tonight against Houston, they have their first test.
I sent my question about the defense to be asked to Eric Quill, and you can see his response above. In essence, he acknowledged the work that needs to be done and some of the mistakes in preseason. But he is clear - he wants to see clean sheets.
We might see Ozase Urhoghide make a debut at some point - but it’s unlikely he will start.
How much will Lucho Acosta play?
Lucho joined FC Dallas late into preseason. He’s still no doubt getting his feet under him in Frisco and connecting with his teammates. Will he start and go 45-60 minutes? Or do they opt to bring him off the bench and not be in a hurry, especially on a road match? Either way, his presence will be a huge boost for the team.
I could see either scenario really be awesome - bring Lucho in to tie it up if Dallas is down in the second half or start with a bang and bring in young guys to finish off Houston.
Who are going to be DAWGS tonight?
This is the biggest thing to watch for - will Eric Quill’s demand for players to step up with aggressiveness and attitude be apparent from the opening whistle? Who is going to try to impress the coach with the minutes they are provided? I think all phases of the lineup tonight have spots up for grabs down the stretch, so even a young homegrown or one of the new guys has a chance to set a high bar for others to overcome.
I am really hoping to see Ramiro Benetti get some extended minutes and showcase whether he was a solid pickup for our boys from Frisco.
What are your questions?
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