STWF Sports | FRISCO, Texas | Jan. 21, 2026 — FC Dallas opened its 2026 preseason with an emphatic statement, rolling to a 4–0 victory over Portuguese side Portimonense S.C. in a controlled international friendly at the Pine Cliffs Resort Football Center in Algarve, Portugal. Played in a modified format of two 30-minute halves, the match offered an early glimpse into FC Dallas’ depth, tactical flexibility, and attacking balance heading into the new Major League Soccer campaign.
While the scoreless opening half was defined by patience and structure, the second half belonged entirely to the MLS side. Four unanswered goals in a 20-minute span transformed a competitive tune-up into a dominant performance, with contributions coming from both established contributors and emerging talents.
The breakthrough arrived in the 38th minute when forward Anderson Julio opened the scoring. Julio capitalized on increased tempo and space down the flank, cutting inside before finishing decisively to give Dallas a deserved lead. The goal appeared to unlock the match, as FC Dallas immediately pushed forward with greater confidence and fluidity.
Just minutes later, Ricky Louis doubled the advantage in the 45th minute, capping a promising debut appearance with a composed finish. Louis’ movement off the ball created separation in the box, and his calm touch in front of goal showcased a striker comfortable with the pace and physicality of the professional level.
After halftime, FC Dallas made wholesale changes, rotating the entire lineup while maintaining its intensity and tactical shape. The shift did little to slow the momentum. In the 52nd minute, Brazilian midfielder Kaick extended the lead to 3–0, delivering a confident strike from midfield after a sustained spell of pressure. Kaick’s goal highlighted the club’s emphasis on dynamic midfield play, with quick ball circulation and aggressive positioning paying immediate dividends.
The final goal arrived in the 58th minute when Christian Cappis found the back of the net, finishing off a well-worked attacking sequence to complete the scoring. Cappis’ contribution underscored the depth of FC Dallas’ midfield options, as well as the coaching staff’s willingness to encourage players to join the attack.
The match also marked first appearances in an FC Dallas jersey for Herman Johansson, Caleb Swann, and Ricky Louis, each of whom saw meaningful minutes in their preseason debut. Johansson featured in the first half midfield group, providing physical presence and positional discipline, while Swann impressed with his energy and composure during the second half. Louis, meanwhile, made the most of his opportunity, pairing his goal with active pressing and intelligent movement.
FC Dallas’ first-half starting XI included Michael Collodi in goal, with Josh Torquato, Nolan Norris, Osaze Urhoghide, and Shaq Moore anchoring the back line. The midfield featured Johansson, Diego Garcia, Ramiro — who wore the captain’s armband — and Patrickson Delgado, while Petar Musa and Logan Farrington led the attack. That group focused on defensive organization and controlled buildup, limiting Portimonense’s chances and setting the foundation for the second-half surge.
The second-half lineup saw Maarten Paes take over in goal and assume captaincy duties, supported by defenders Bernard Kamungo, Lalas Abubakar, Álvaro, and Sebastien Ibeagha. Louicius Deedson and Caleb Swann added width and energy, while Kaick and Cappis controlled the midfield. Julio and Louis partnered up front, a combination that proved particularly effective against a tiring Portuguese defense.
Beyond the scoreline, the friendly served its primary purpose for FC Dallas: evaluating personnel, testing combinations, and building match fitness. The clean sheet was a positive sign for the defensive unit, while the four-goal outburst showcased the club’s attacking potential across multiple lines.
For Portimonense, the match represented an early preseason challenge against a well-drilled opponent, with the second-half flurry exposing gaps that will be addressed as their preparations continue. For FC Dallas, however, the result reinforced a sense of optimism and internal competition as the club continues its training camp in Portugal.
As preseason progresses, results will matter far less than performance trends, player development, and tactical cohesion. Still, a 4–0 victory against international opposition provides confidence and momentum. FC Dallas will look to build on this performance in upcoming friendlies, carrying forward the sharpness, depth, and attacking intent that defined its opening act of 2026.
