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FC Dallas vs. Minnesota United: Preview and How to Watch

By Nathan Reynolds

Mar 18, 2017; Frisco, TX, USA; FC Dallas forward Maximiliano Urruti (37) celebrates a goal against the New England Revolution during the game at Toyota Stadium. FC Dallas defeats New England Revolution 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 18, 2017; Frisco, TX, USA; FC Dallas forward Maximiliano Urruti (37) celebrates a goal against the New England Revolution during the game at Toyota Stadium. FC Dallas defeats New England Revolution 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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FC Dallas returns to MLS action after CCL elimination, welcoming a Minnesota United side fresh off their first win in the league.

Saturday features a matchup that before the season appeared as a clear victory for the home side. After week three, a win for Dallas seemed even more likely. Heading into the match however, Minnesota United will feel a lot better about their chances.

How will FC Dallas respond after throwing after a Champions League semi-final lead? How rested are the star players and who will start? For Minnesota, now having won do they feel less pressure on the road? Can Ramirez and Molino keep up with a Dallas attack up against a shaky Minnesota backline?

FC Dallas

After two weeks away MLS action, FC Dallas welcome Minnesota in the two sides first ever meeting. While the club and fans will be disappointed that the CONCACAF Champions League slipped away, they must refocus on the incoming Loons. The game is setup as a trap for Dallas.

Undefeated at home since well into last season, Dallas will be expected to not only win the match, but convincingly. With Minnesota having allowed 20 goals in this first five games in MLS, expect Dallas to press and attack often.

Even with Minnesota’s increased form, the Dallas attack and speed should prove to too much for the United backline. Only three matches into the league campaign, the side only have four total goals, and are due for a breakout match. Maxi Urruti is in fine form, Acosta is a growing star in the league, and this could be the breakout match for Cristian Colman .

Apr 1, 2017; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota United midfielder Kevin Molino (18) against Real Salt Lake at TCF Bank Stadium. Minnesota United defeated Real Salt Lake 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 1, 2017; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota United midfielder Kevin Molino (18) against Real Salt Lake at TCF Bank Stadium. Minnesota United defeated Real Salt Lake 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

Minnesota United

The expansion side are riding high heading into week six. After a rough start to the 2017 campaign, the Loons picked up their first MLS win against Real Salt Lake last weekend. Now on four points, Minnesota is no longer on the bottom of the table.

Traveling to FC Dallas was always going to be a tough test. The 2016 Supporters’ Shield and Open Cup winners have been a force in the MLS the past few years, and solid at home. Given Minnesota’s start to the year and last week’s win, this match looks like a nothing-to-lose affair.

At the start of the year no one would be expecting Minnesota to win at Dallas. Now after securing three points last week, the fans will have plenty of consideration for the side, regardless of the result.

Christian Ramirez has hit his MLS stride, now on four goals and looks to remain the focal point of Minnesota’s attack going forward. Minnesota’s other key man is Kevin Molino, who will now be fully recovered from international duty. Given the difficult opponent and porous defense, United should hope for a draw.

Next: MLS Multiplex Staff Predictions - Week 6

How to Watch

National: MLS Live

Minnesota: My29

Dallas: TXA-21

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