MLS Multiplex
Fansided

FC Dallas: A Late Surge Towards Glory or Just Another Attempt?

By Arthur Fernandes

FRISCO, TEXAS - OCTOBER 7: Jáder Obrian #8 of FC Dallas celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the MLS game between San Jose Earthquakes and FC Dallas at Toyota Stadium on October 7, 2023 in Frisco, Texas. (Photo by Omar Vega/Getty Images)
FRISCO, TEXAS - OCTOBER 7: Jáder Obrian #8 of FC Dallas celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the MLS game between San Jose Earthquakes and FC Dallas at Toyota Stadium on October 7, 2023 in Frisco, Texas. (Photo by Omar Vega/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

FC Dallas recently secured their spot in the coveted playoffs of the Audi 2023 MLS Cup, after an exhilarating 4-1 victory against LA Galaxy on Decision Day. However, the question lingering in the minds of the club’s fans and MLS observers is whether the team can turn this late surge into a final triumph, lifting the MLS Cup trophy for the first time.

Under the guidance of coach Nico Estévez, FC Dallas certainly can’t be underestimated, especially with the formidable attacking trio of Jesús Ferreira, Alan Velasco, and Bernard Kamungo, all proving to be valuable assets throughout the season. Ferreira, in particular, continues to be a dominant force, having been named the MLS Young Player of the Year last season and maintaining an impressive record of 12 goals and 6 assists this season.

FRISCO, TEXAS – OCTOBER 7: Paxton Pomykal (C) #19 of FC Dallas and Cade Cowell #44 (L) of San Jose Earthquakes battle for the ball during the MLS game between San Jose Earthquakes and FC Dallas at Toyota Stadium on October 7, 2023 in Frisco, Texas. (Photo by Omar Vega/Getty Images)
FRISCO, TEXAS – OCTOBER 7: Paxton Pomykal (C) #19 of FC Dallas and Cade Cowell #44 (L) of San Jose Earthquakes battle for the ball during the MLS game between San Jose Earthquakes and FC Dallas at Toyota Stadium on October 7, 2023 in Frisco, Texas. (Photo by Omar Vega/Getty Images) /

Furthermore, the notable presence of players like Paxton Pomykal and summer signing Asier Illarramendi has strengthened the midfield, providing a solid foundation for the team’s success. However, sporadic contributions from experienced players like Paul Arriola and Sebastian Lletget raise questions about the team’s consistency and ability to handle the crucial demands of the playoffs.

While goalkeeper Maarten Paes has been a reliable pillar in defense, along with defenders Sebastien Ibeagha and Nkosi Tafari, FC Dallas’ defense will face an imminent test against formidable opponents in the playoffs.

With a history marked by frequent postseason trips but with few titles to show for, FC Dallas is faced with a crucial opportunity to rewrite their destiny in MLS. However, whether the team can overcome its internal struggles and turn its potential into tangible results is a question that only time and the playoffs will answer. Will this be the year FC Dallas finally lifts the trophy, or will they once again face the disappointment of an unfulfilled promise? The answer is about to unfold in the thrilling clashes of the MLS Cup playoffs.

Home/FC Dallas