FC Dallas Fall (Super) Late in the Open Cup to SKC
Petar Musa found a clutch goal late in the second half to force extra time, but a corner kick by the home side secured the win.
FC Dallas’ 2024 Open Cup run came to an end last night in a brutal fashion, a match that featured a long weather stoppage, extra time, plenty of drama, and more.
A late goal from Petar Musa sent the match into extra time, but FC Dallas couldn’t prevent a go ahead goal off of a corner kick. FC Dallas head home, licking their wounds, exhausted, injured. The team was so exhausted that the normal media call after the match didn’t even happen - understandable after the long evening.
One of the things I had hoped to ask head coach Peter Luccin was whether he felt like his squad, having faced Sporting Kansas City twice this week, had shown improvement. For stretches, the game was even statistically. A PK was awarded to SKC from a pretty suspect call on Nkosi Tafari and called back as just a free kick.
The biggest story for FC Dallas is the lack of reinforcements off of the bench. Herbert Endelay and Eugene Ansah came in in the second half to give a boost of energy, but both players haven’t featured much. Sam Junqua was the sole set of fresh legs in extra time, while Sporting Kansas City subbed in multiple bodies. It limited the options to push the game.
Sebastian Lletget had another solid match and was unfortunate to not find a goal or two as his shots were parried by Tim Melia.
Asier Illaramendi had an incredible night. He frustrated Sporting Kansas City throughout the night. As the game wore on, it was clear he faded a bit, but you can’t fault his performance overall. His no look pass to Petar Musa late in the second half led to the equalizer.
Bernard Kamungo had a game that showcased his incredible talent but also the need for growth and minutes at this level. He had at least two breakaway opportunities that went wide. Just a bit more luck - or maybe a little bit more confidence - and he might have put the game wide open for FC Dallas.
The clearest chance for FC Dallas for hardware this season came to an end. Fans are left wondering what is next, especially with the squad well out of playoff contention. Does this open the door to the departure of some key players and more minutes for youngsters? Does it send a clearer picture that this roster needs reinforcements?
I think one of the biggest losers on the night is Peter Luccin. The interim FC Dallas head coach has been making a case (and will continue to do so) for a look as the long term solution in Frisco. He has gotten more results in a short amount of time for FC Dallas, even if those have been tempered by other disappointments. Remaining in contention, or even making the final, would have been a huge bullet point for the argument for him to build something special here.
Alas, the door has closed. An exhausted squad and fan base are left without answers.