Match Notes: FC Dallas vs. Inter Miami CF

A Triumphant Start: FC Dallas Secures Victory in Preseason Opener

On a chilly Monday evening in Dallas, Texas, FC Dallas and Inter Miami CF faced off in an electrifying preseason encounter at the iconic Cotton Bowl Stadium. With a crowd of 32,211 cheering them on, the home team emerged victorious, claiming a hard-fought 1-0 victory. This triumph marked FC Dallas’ first win at the Cotton Bowl since 2009, reigniting the passion of their loyal supporters.

A Lightning-Fast Start Sets the Tone

FC Dallas wasted no time in asserting their dominance, striking early in the 3rd minute through their talismanic striker, Jesús Ferreira. The goal, beautifully crafted through the combined efforts of Asier Illarramendi, Liam Fraser, and Paul Arriola, showcased the team’s attacking prowess and set the tone for the rest of the match.

A Solid Defensive Display Cements the Victory

FC Dallas’ defense, anchored by the experienced Nkosi Tafari, stood firm throughout the match, thwarting Inter Miami’s attempts to equalize. Tafari, fresh from his exploits with the U.S. Men’s National Team, captained the team in the closing stages of the first half, demonstrating his leadership qualities and galvanizing the backline.

Newcomers Make Their Mark in Dallas Debut

The match also served as a platform for several FC Dallas newcomers to make their debuts. Goalkeeper Antonio Carrera, defenders Omar Gonzalez, Mads Westergren, and Turner Humphrey, midfielders Pedrinho, Alejandro Urzua, Carl Sainté, Diego García, and Tomas Pondeca, and forward Logan Farrington all donned the FC Dallas shirt for the first time. These players, acquired through various avenues, displayed their skills and potential, adding depth and versatility to the team’s roster.

Lineups: A Clash of Star-Studded Rosters

FC Dallas:

• Goalkeeper: Maarten Paes
• Defenders: Sebastien Ibeagha, Nkosi Tafari, Sam Junqua
• Midfielders: Herbert Endeley, Liam Fraser, Asier Illarramendi, Dante Sealy
• Forwards: Jesús Ferreira, Eugene Ansah, Paul Arriola

Inter Miami CF:

• Goalkeeper: Drake Callender
• Defenders: DeAndre Yedlin, Sergii Kryvtsov, Tomas Aviles, Noah Allen, Jordi Alba
• Midfielders: Sergio Busquets, Julian Gressel, David Ruiz
• Forwards: Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi

Substitutions: A Strategic Shuffle

Both teams made numerous substitutions throughout the match, introducing fresh legs and tactical variations. FC Dallas brought on Antonio Carrera, Jimmy Maurer, Logan Farrington, Diego García, Omar Gonzalez, Turner Humphrey, Amet Korça, Nolan Norris, Tsiki Ntsabeleng, Pedrinho, Tomas Pondeca, Carl Sainté, Alejandro Urzua, and Sebastian Lletget. Inter Miami CF countered with Nicolas Steffanelli, Gregore, Leonardo Campana, Lawson Sunderland, Robert Taylor, and Chris McVey.

Postgame Quotes: Coaches and Players Reflect

After the match, FC Dallas Head Coach Nico Estévez and players Omar Gonzalez and Maarten Paes shared their thoughts on the victory and the team’s overall performance.

Nico Estévez:

• “It was a great game, we had some really nice soccer tonight. I want to thank the fans for coming out, it was cold, it was rainy, it was a Monday at 5 pm, but there were plenty of kids in the crowd coming after school, as my son did. The fans were happy tonight.”
• “Soccer culture in Dallas is huge. You can see it tonight but you can also see how the fans are responding in the Toyota Stadium because they are there every single game, it’s full, it’s packed. You can see it when I watch my kid, he plays soccer also, and how many kids play around here and all the families and I think the growth is very very good and it will keep growing.”

Omar Gonzalez:

• “Every time we step on the field we play hard and come to win no matter the rival. We played really well tonight and we did not lose focus which is very important. It is important to play every game with intensity no matter if it is a friendly. The team tonight connected and fought every ball and this is very important as we continue to prepare for the beginning of the season.”
• “It is a dream come true to be able to return back with the club. I am very speechless and emotional to be back on the field and home with my family. Playing in this stadium especially brings a lot of memories and happiness as it was nothing but great experiences that remind me of my childhood.”

Maarten Paes:

• “It was a close game and it was good to get everyone on our team going again. It is good to prepare for set pieces ahead of next season. We are ready to go.”

A Call to Action: Join the Excitement!

FC Dallas’ preseason victory is a testament to the team’s determination and the unwavering support of their loyal fans. As the season approaches, the excitement is building, and the team needs your unwavering support. Secure your tickets today and be part of the electrifying atmosphere at Toyota Stadium, where every match is a spectacle. Together, we can make the 2024 season one to remember!