Sunday evening brought a full slate of games from the MLS. Among these games was a very interesting matchup between two teams that were in the playoff hunt in their respective conferences.
Having won three of their previous four matches, FC Dallas firmly placed themselves back in the playoff picture in the Western Conference. The North Texas club has enjoyed a solid league restart only losing twice. Luchi Gonzalez and his team would be looking to gain ground on West leaders Seattle while creating a gap in points from the rest of the playoff hopefuls.
After finishing runners up in the MLS is Back tournament, Orlando City has maintained their consistency since league play restarted. Only losing once in the previous 12 games, Oscar Pareja’s side is firmly in the race to claim the Eastern Conference.
Both sides ended up cancelling each other out, ending the match in a scoreless draw. This tactical analysis will take a look at how Orlando adjusted to playing a man down, and how Dallas couldn’t take advantage of the numerical advantage.
Lineups
FC Dallas 4-2-3-1
Luchi Gonzalez sent out his side in a 4-2-3-1 with particular emphasis on the wide areas. Players such as Michael Barrios and Santiago Mosquera would look to provide service for top scorer Francisco Jara. Rookie right back and academy product Bryan Reynolds has found playing time after Reggie Cannon’s departure to Boavista.
