In Game 1 of the first round of the USL playoffs, the Seattle Sounders seemed unstoppable in their winning ways. However, the mountain of pressure has quietly shifted to the shoulders of FC Dallas, and a touchdown defeat means they could bid an early farewell to the tournament.
The Seattle Sounders have won all of their last 10 matches, with 3 wins and 2 draws on the road to show their strength, while FC Dallas' last 5 home matches have ended in a draw, which is a worrying situation.
The Seattle Sounders were slightly better in possession and shots on goal in the first 3-set, 2-win matchup, and were especially sharp on the wings, with the wing pairing of Leodju and Kristian Lourdain tiring out the opposing defense.
FC Dallas is expected to increase the frequency of passes in the game, with Leodju and Kristian Lourdain shouldering the counterattacking burden. As for the frontline, Jordan Morris, who failed to contribute in the first game but was credited with the crucial 2nd goal, is expected to start, while Redillas could come on as a substitute to change the game.
FC Dallas will have to break down the impenetrable defense of the Seattle Sounders, as their opponents have conceded an average of less than one goal per game this season, and zero in their last three.
FC Dallas failed to create many chances on goal in the first match, with Jetsis Ferrana missing a one-touch chance, but as the team's top scorer with no goals in his last seven matches, he will have to improve his shooting percentage in this match.
