Gameday for FC Dallas: Whitecaps in Town

Another busy week is on tap for FC Dallas, as they welcome the Vancouver Whitecaps at home. Also, dollar hot dogs?

The big win over Austin FC has the team feeling buoyant as the Vancouver Whitecaps stroll into town, even if the injury report remains a big concern for the team.

Garrett Melcer pointed out a “not-so-fun” fact about Nico’s record with Vancouver over on twitter:

With Sebastian Lletget, Paul Arriola, and Jesus Jimenez expected out for this one, FC Dallas will have to dig deep again to figure out a starting lineup that keeps in mind the home game against Houston Dynamo later in the week. Both games are against Western Conference opponents, so wins are vital for playoff standings. More importantly, they are at home. You got to win all of your games at home in this league to book your ticket to post-season action.

During the podcast on Monday, we did some predictions:

Ismael Belkoura anticipated a 0-0 draw tonight, not a bad shout considering both teams will be tired.

Jose Carmona predicated a 1-0 win.

I’m also on record of suggesting a 1-0 win, hopefully off of a set piece.

The big question mark will be who starts on the wings for FC Dallas. Jader Obrian has been playing well. What is his fitness level? Alan Velasco has made his way back into the starting lineup as well after an injury. Do both guys start, or do you give Bernard Kamungo his first Major League Soccer start in one of these matches in hopes of keeping another play rested for the Houston match?

These are the moments I don’t envy a head coach having to figure out how to get a result and keep his players healthy.

By the way, the nugget that helps FC Dallas is that Vancouver also played last weekend and will travel again this weekend. Expect some rotation from the team. Expect some tired legs from the visitors. That may ultimately play in the home side’s favor, especially if the weather heats things up. That winning goal may come late in this one.

Enjoy the dollar hot dogs, fans.