Chivas USA vs. FC Dallas: 10 Bold Predictions

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May 17, 2014; Frisco, TX, USA; Chivas USA midfielder Martin Rivero (5) is fouled by FC Dallas midfielder Victor Ulloa (28) in the second half at Toyota Stadium. FC Dallas and Chivas tied 1-1. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

After getting the rug pulled from under them by the Colorado Rapids, Wilmer Cabrera’s Chivas USA are looking to get back on the winning track. With a record of 6-9-5, the Goats are off the pace and will need to get their act together at StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. on Aug. 3. Oscar Pareja’s FC Dallas played to a 2-2 draw with the Vancouver Whitecaps at BC Place Stadium last weekend. They have a record of 8-7-6 (30 points) and are in the race for a spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. PT/10 p.m. ET and will be televised by MLS LIVE. Here are 10 Bold Predictions for Sunday’s contest between Chivas USA and FC Dallas.

1. At least 40 fouls, under five cards

It will be a tough, physical battle, and one of the more run-of-the-mill MLS matches in terms of fouls and cards. The MLS Multiplex is boldly predicting for at least 40 fouls whistled and at least five cards issued.

2. Erick Torres will score

With 14 goals under his belt, Erick Torres has single-handedly kept Chivas in the running this season. He didn’t score against Colorado, but he will score on Sunday against Dallas at home.

3. Under five saves for Dan Kennedy

This will be a tough go for Dan Kennedy. He is Chivas USA’s leading goalkeeper with 51 saves to his credit, but he will make under five saves for the hosts in this contest.

4. Raul Fernandez with at least five saves

FC Dallas goalkeeper Raul Fernandez has 34 saves this season and he will have another big game for Dallas on Sunday. The MLS Multiplex is boldly predicting for at least five saves from Fernandez against Chivas.

5. Michel will score for FC Dallas

This season, Michael had six goals and most of these goals have come off penalties. A penalty will be called in this game, and it will be the Brazilian that steps up to the spot and hammers one home.

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6. Blas Perez will score for FC Dallas

Also with six goals this season is Panamanian trigger man Blas Perez. This is going to be a statement victory for FC Dallas, and Perez will be there to add to the misery of the hosts in the second half.

7. Fabian Castillo on goal for FC Dallas

Fabian Castillo has also had a good campaign for FC Dallas, with five gopals and two assists to his credit. For Dallas to take these three points, he will need to play a smart game and also provide if necessary. The Plex is calling for a goal and an assist.

8. Tesho Akindele on goal for FC Dallas

Rookie Tesho Akindele of the Colorado School of Mines is striking gold with his playing time for FC Dallas. This season, Akindele has three goals this season. Watch for Akindele to score in the first half for the visitors.

9. No goals for Leandro Barrera

Forward Leandro Barrera was held in check by the Colorado Rapids backline last week and will be held in check on Sunday by FC Dallas, who have a competent backline of their own. There will be no goals for Barrera in this contest.

10. FC Dallas routs Chivas USA

This will be a straightforward affair for FC Dallas. Stuck in the middle of the MLS Western Conference, they need this win to put the pressure of Real Salt Lake and the Seattle Sounders, who dominate the top of the West standings. As for Chivas USA, there is no doubt that this is going to put them further back of the pack.

FC Dallas 4, Chivas USA 1