MLS 2020: FC Dallas vs Sporting Kansas City

After the MLS had to cancel some games over the weekend, an almost full slate of matches was played on Wednesday. One of these matchups was between hosts FC Dallas and Sporting Kansas City.

FC Dallas has not had much luck playing at home. Luchi Gonzalez’s side has only won one game and drawn four before the match against Sporting KC. Sitting eight points behind the visitors, another victory against Sporting KC would aid Dallas in their hunt for a spot in the postseason.

Sporting Kansas City came into Texas on the back of a three-game win streak. Peter Vermes’ team is sitting in third place with 29 points. If they could leave North Texas with three points, Sporting KC would put themselves between Seattle and Portland in the race to top the Western Conference.

At the end of the night, Dallas was able to claim their second home win of the season. This tactical analysis will look at how the North Texas team was able to secure three points from a tough Sporting KC.

Lineups

FC Dallas 4-2-3-1

Luchi Gonzalez’s team had a game against Colorado postponed, so they had just come off a weekend off. Dallas’ 4-2-3-1 was very fluid in the midfield with academy product Tessmann and Acosta rotating frequently. Center back Bressan continues to deputise for the injured Matt Hedges. At right-back, Bryan Reynolds continues his strong form after Reggie Cannon’s departure to Boavista.

Sporting Kansas City 4-1-4-1

Peter Vermes set his side up to roll with the punches in Texas. With Alan Pulido missing due to international games with Mexico, Erik Hurtado was called upon once again to lead the line. Vermes also rested leading scorer Johnny Russel, opting with Gerso Fernandez on the right-wing. Due to absences to captain Matt Besler and West Ham loanee Winston Reid, Fontás and Puncec started at the heart of the defence.