Twelfth place Austin FC (5-11-4) plays 11th ranked FC Dallas (5-9-7) on Sunday night, 7 p.m. Texas time. This is the second-ever meeting between these two in-state rivals.
Austin FC vies for back-to-back home wins after taking care of Portland in spectacular fashion last week.
There are no matches off for the verde and black as every game is now a must-win in order to get above the playoff line. Luckily, the stars have aligned in Austin’s favor — next three matches include Western Conference cellar dwellers Dallas, Vancouver, and Houston.
Timing can’t be more perfect for an ATXFC statement win this week. The Ricardo Pepi hype train gained steam after his stellar performance in the MLS All Star game. It’s Austin’s chance to gain league-wide attention by shutting down Pepi and FC Dallas.
Score Prediction: a 2-1 Austin win against a Dallas side that has performed poorly on the road. ATXFC exposed Portland’s weak defense last week, but can Verde get the same offensive production against a much better defensive squad.
Match Day
Austin FC vs. FC Dallas at Q2 Stadium, Sunday (8/29), 7:00 p.m. Actual kickoff is 7:25 p.m due to the rivalry match being nationally televised on FS1.
- TV: FS1, FOX Deportes Austin (Spanish)
- Radio: Alt 97.5FM, TUDN Radio 104.3 (Spanish)
Going to the game? Check out these transportation options to the stadium. There’s also plenty of watch parties around town or breweries near the stadium if you didn’t score tickets, but want a fun atmosphere with fellow Verde fans.
Player Injury Report (Official 8/29)
- OUT: Danny Hoesen (Left Hip)
- OUT: Aaron Schoenfeld (Left Knee)
- OUT: Ulises Segura (Left Knee)
- OUT: Ben Sweat (Left ACL)
Predicted Lineup
We mostly carry over a Starting XI that dismantled Portland Timbers last week, with the exception of Diego Fagundez. Wolff has noticeable rested star players in recent weeks and this week we think it’s Diego’s turn. Plus, imagine the second half firepower if both Fagundez and new striker Djitté come off the bench. Energy level in the last 45′ has been an issue and we expect Wolff to shake it up again this week.
Kit Colors Matchup
Austin FC wear the classic black and verde kit for its third straight home match. No word yet on Wolff’s polo choice for this match.
Unfortunately for the black and green of South Columbus, much work is needed to shore up the back line and getting a better coach. As a FC Dallas fan, I have years of experience recognizing such problems.
Seriously though, a raising of the glass to y’all. Plenty of years ahead of fun derby matches await. Cheers!