MLS 2020: Nashville SC vs FC Dallas – tactical analysis

In the penultimate round of MLS games, teams were battling for a chance at the playoffs. New kids on the block Nashville SC welcomed FC Dallas to middle Tennessee in their fourth matchup this season. While Nashville and Dallas have both qualified for postseason play, each team had something to play for. 

Managed by Gary Smith, Nashville has enjoyed a good maiden season in the league. The Music City club was looking to extend their unbeaten home streak, which extends from February 29th. Three points would help the expansion side avoid the play-in game for the second round of the playoffs.

FC Dallas is primed for a second consecutive postseason run. After losing 3-0 to Nashville in their previous meeting, Dallas has gone on a three-match unbeaten run. A win for Luchi Gonzalez’s side would secure a bye from the first round of the playoffs.

Ultimately FC Dallas were able to secure the victory they needed, which propelled them to fourth in the Western Conference. This tactical analysis will look at how the North Texas club was able to pin Nashville SC for the better part of the game.

Lineups

Nashville SC 3-5-2

While not the flashiest, Gary Smith’s side has produced the results. Coming into this game, Nashville was unbeaten in the previous four matches, picking up eight points of the 12 available. Leading goal scorer Andy Ríos started up front alongside Costa Rican Randall Leal. At the heart of the defence, MLS veteran Walker Zimmerman started between Jack Maher and Dave Romney.

FC Dallas 4-2-3-1

Luchi Gonzalez had to make a few personnel changes to his usual starting eleven. Leading goal scorer Franco Jara and left-winger Fafa Picault did not travel due to injury. Homegrown striker Ricardo Pepi was given his first start as the target man, while Johnny Nelson stepped in at left-back. This allowed Gonzalez to start the versatile Ryan Hollingshead at left wing. Naturally a defender, Hollingshead has found the net three times in the past 10 games.