FC Dallas Miss Chance to Win against RSL
A 1-1 draw is a disappointing result, as FC Dallas keep finding ways to drop points at home despite Anderson Julio's brilliance.
(Photo credit: FC Dallas media staff.)
When the final whistle blew, FC Dallas fans witnessed an all too familiar reality in 2025 - dropped points at home again.
After a solid Open Cup win earlier in the week, FC Dallas appeared ready to turn the page on poor home form as they welcomed Real Salt Lake to town. But Diego Luna, one of the hottest players in the league, silenced the home crowd with a stellar effort to open scoring, putting Dallas into a hole once again. Fans were listless when the half-time whistle blew.
It’s not that FC Dallas played terribly - aside from Luna’s heroic effort, RSL did not exactly threaten, but FCD didn’t exactly take control of the match either.
The second half looked better, as FC Dallas, buoyed by Pedrinho once again coming off the bench as a super sub, created far more chances, including the one that started a run and sequence where Anderson Julio scored the goal that would bring the match level. For Julio, one of the best signings from the offseason, the moment was euphoric. His effort was brave as he put the team on his back.
“I feel very happy to have scored against my former team, as they say in my country, the law of the ex,” Julio said. “For me it was something nice, motivating, it was something special more than anything else that they gave me the opportunity to be able to be here in the MLS. I am very grateful for the opportunity.”
When Real Salt Lake went down a man on a clear dive by Willy Agada, earning a second yellow, FC Dallas were poised for a go ahead goal and a full three points at home. Yes, they generated some chances. Petar Musa also got his first minutes after going down with a sprained ankle. Paxton Pomykal, to a roar from the crowd, made his long awaited return from energy and looked good. But all of that talent on the field didn’t offer up a second goal.
The game ended at 1-1, and FC Dallas remain with unanswered questions.
“Obviously the red card helps us a lot. But I still think before the red card happened, in the second half, we had a different look and different mentality to us. That was positive,” Quill told media after the match. “But again, we gotta take three at home. We have to be honest and we gotta find a way to win that game.”
Big Takeaways
Getting Healthy: While the draw is a disappointment, Petar Musa made his return, sorely missed, and Paxton Pomykal has potential to be a missing midfield piece after 400+ days of injury. Bernard Kamungo also played with much more confidence after getting a goal in the Open Cup midweek. Those are all welcome signs for a squad that needs difference makers.
Homegrown Positivity: Nolan Norris was excellent in this one. He needs more minutes and continued opportunities to shine. Frankly, when Farfan gets healthy, I want Norris either as a centerback next to Osaze or pushed up into the midfield next to Kaick. Yes, give him some rest here and there, but there is no reason for him not to play.
Paes Timid: Maarten Paes has one issue that is concerning - why does he seem hesitant about coming out for balls on crosses? He’s a great shot blocker, but Paes hasn’t been as sharp lately in his sense of bravery to meet the balls and clamp down on dangerous moments. What gives?
Acosta Questions: Lucho Acosta was the marquee signing for FC Dallas this offseason, and there are still plenty of individual moments when you see his passing and dribbling skills. But then there are moments when a breeze pushes him flat on his ass, and he expects more from his players than the formation and talent around him offer. It’s not enough to see potential for what can be brilliant - Lucho needs to work with the tools in this toolbox.
Quill Questions: Eric Quill has done some decent things since taking over from interim Peter Luccin, but there are numerous questions around his ability to get the most out of this group of players. Yes, it’s a work in progress, but remember how Quill told fans that losing at home, dropping points at home, would not happen again. And it has happened… again and again. I’m not suggesting Quill is on the hot seat, but maybe it is time for fans to ask bigger questions about what their new head coach needs to improve as the season continues.