FC Dallas (3-3-2) will face off against Toronto FC (2-3-4) tonight at Pizza Hut Park. FC Dallas is in the middle of their busiest month of the season and these next few weeks will really test FC Dallas as they prepare to play 5 games in the next 18 days.
FC Dallas is coming of an ugly 0-0 draw to D.C. United last week, and if not for Kevin Hartman’s spectacular save in the 88’ FC Dallas probably loses that game.
I would look for some much needed changes from FC Dallas this week, the big change hopefully being the switch to the 4-4-2 formation. With Ferreira and Benitez out due to injuries, FC Dallas has been struggling in the final third of the field. They only registered 2 shots on goal against D.C. United, and the draw was their third scoreless game of the year. Results like those of last week are more than enough reasons for Hyndman to move away from the lone striker system and give Milton Rodriguez some much needed help up top. I would look for Fabian Castillo to be paired up with Chavez or maybe even Ruben Luna at the forward positions this week, with Milton Rodriguez out due to injury.
Also, Jackson Goncalves should be returning to the lineup tonight after missing last week’s game against D.C. United with a leg injury. Jackson’s return to the lineup is essential if FC Dallas is intent on going to the 4-4-2 this week, because his return to the backline would allow Brek Shea to rejoin the attack at the left midfielder position, where he has proven to be an invaluable assest for FC Dallas.
Toronto FC is a good team that employs the 4-3-3 formation, and their mid fielders move the ball around very well and will attack from different angles. They also have a talented young striker in Joao Plata, who won MLS player of the week honors in week 8.
FC Dallas is battling a tough schedule as well as injuries to key players. They looked a little disjointed as a team last week in D.C. But hopefully having the next 3 games at home will help the team come together, and allow them to work on their team chemistry.
