Fabian Castillo was ruled out earlier in the week for Saturday’s game but recovered in time to make the starting lineup. FC Dallas, however, could not find any rythim even with the talented midfielder. Victor Araiza / Prost Amerika.
Tonight, Toronto FC will play their first home game of the 2016 MLS season, so Toronto is going to be motivated to put on a great performance tonight. FC Dallas, who have struggled in the last two fixtures away from home, will be hoping to rain on the homecoming parade.
Thankfully, the only rain that most Toronto FC fans will need to worry about is the figurative kind now that roofing for the stands at BMO Field have been completed. (Cue jealousy from some FC Dallas fans that have been begging for some sort of sun or weather protection for Toyota Stadium in Frisco: of course, that stadium did just break ground on the new US Soccer Hall of Fame.)
‘A whole new stadium’: Take a look at renovated BMO Field ahead of Toronto FC home opener
Matt Hedges impact as captain and leader of the defense cannot be questioned after the last two games. Hopefully for FC Dallas, the back line can put in a solid performance. It will be interesting to see who starts in goal for FC Dallas, but to be honest it seems neither goalkeeper is confident in getting the support they need from any backline that does not include Matt Hedges.
The offense also seems to have stalled out in recent weeks. Either players are dipping in form and confidence, the team keeps meeting man-of-the match goalkeeping displays, or FC Dallas have simply had some bad luck.
Without Mauro Diaz on the field, teams can focus on shutting down other players like Fabian Castillo, who has been an attacking threat but nowhere near what he was at the beginning of the season. Maximiliano Urruti has quieted down as well. Diaz is back now, but it may take some time for that chemistry to reignite on the field.
At this point, fans of FC Dallas would be happy with a good performance, even if it comes in a loss, and would probably be very excited with a draw. The team needs a confidence boost going into their midweek game at home against Portland Timbers on Wednesday, May 11.
FC Dallas
Toronto FC
