Image: FC Dallas via Twitter
03/02/2023
FC Dallas will take the field once again on Saturday and try to earn their first win of 2023. Their last game (the home opener) against Minnesota United was a disappointing 1-0 loss. Maarten Paes had some great saves during the game and despite some frustrations with the defense, they did manage to keep the game close. The Dallas offense will need to step up though if they want to avoid discouraging their fans.
The LA Galaxy hasn't played yet as their first game had to be postponed due to severe weather (LA Galaxy Match Against LAFC Rescheduled for Tuesday, July 4 at Rose Bowl Stadium | LA Galaxy). In addition to the forced bye week, the Galaxy will be missing Chicharito. LA Galaxy star Chicharito out 2-5 weeks due to hamstring injury | MLSSoccer.com
Chicharito scored 18 goals last season. He was tied for fourth place in the Golden Boot race alongside Jesus Ferreira, Brenner, and Brandon Vazquez. His absence should be an advantage for Dallas.
Line-Up Prediction-
Image: Toros96 via Lineup11
With the first game being a loss, Nico Estevez should make some adjustments to the lineup. Ema Twumasi earned the start last week but given that Geovane Jesus was signed as an MLS U-22 Initiative player, the long-term goal has to be him as a starter. He made his MLS debut and played 23 minutes.
Image: FC Dallas via Twitter
I also put Tafari in for Jose Martinez. Load management is going to be crucial for Dallas this season and although we're only just beginning the new season, this feels like a good time to rotate through the three main center backs.
Although the offense couldn't perform last week, I don't think Estevez will rotate through those guys just yet. Jader Obrian could replace Alan Velasco or even Paul Arriola, but he really isn't an upgrade at either of those spots. Jesus Jimenez still hasn't gotten his visa, so he'll be unavailable still...
Predictions-
I'm going to go with a 2-0 win, goals from Jesus Ferreira and Paul Arriola. It's hard to predict how Dallas will do, so this is more of what I'm hoping happens.
By Toros95