FRISCO, Texas (July 25, 2025) — FC Dallas returns home to Toyota Stadium on Friday night for a crucial interconference matchup against Eastern Conference side New York City FC. Kickoff is slated for 7:30 p.m. CT, with the match streaming live on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV. Fans can also listen to the radio call via the official FC Dallas app.

The stakes are high for both clubs as the MLS season rolls into its decisive stretch. FC Dallas (6-10-7, 25 points) finds itself in a tightly packed Western Conference playoff race, sitting just outside the final Wild Card spot. Meanwhile, NYCFC (9-9-5, 32 points) is aiming to solidify its position in the East’s top seven with road points in hand.

Dallas Returns Home with Urgency

After a hard-fought road swing that included a narrow 1-0 loss to St. Louis CITY SC, FC Dallas is eager to get back in the win column in front of its home crowd. The club has struggled to build consistent momentum this season, but performances at Toyota Stadium have offered hope. Dallas has claimed points in six of its last eight home fixtures, including a recent 2-1 win over LA Galaxy.

Manager Nico Estévez will look to his young core to deliver once again. Midfielder Sebastián Lletget has provided composure and leadership in the center of the park, while Petar Musa, the club’s marquee forward, remains a focal point in attack with eight goals on the season.

One to watch is rising homegrown talent Bernard Kamungo, who has continued to impress with his direct play and knack for finding dangerous spaces on the wings.

NYCFC Brings Balanced Attack

The visiting New York City FC enters the matchup after an up-and-down stretch but remains one of the more balanced and tactically sound teams in the league. Managed by Nick Cushing, the Pigeons lean on their structured buildup and pressing principles to dictate tempo.

Attacker Santiago Rodríguez has been the heartbeat of NYCFC’s midfield, leading the team with six goals and seven assists. Winger Hannes Wolf, acquired in the offseason, has adapted well and provides width and service from the flanks.

NYCFC’s backline, anchored by center back Thiago Martins, has allowed just 28 goals in 23 matches, among the best defensive marks in the Eastern Conference.

Historical Context and Matchup Dynamics

Friday’s meeting will be the seventh all-time matchup between the two clubs. FC Dallas holds a slight edge historically, having won three of the previous six encounters, including a dramatic 3-1 win in Frisco in 2022.

While the teams don’t see each other often due to conference separation, the match always brings intrigue due to contrasting styles. Dallas prefers to press higher and stretch opponents with speed on the break, while NYCFC leans into possession and positional play to create chances.

Midfield control will be key. If FC Dallas can disrupt NYCFC’s rhythm early and get the ball into transition quickly, they may find success against an NYCFC side that can be vulnerable when caught between lines.

Key Players to Watch

• Petar Musa (DAL): The striker has been clutch at home and will look to exploit space behind NYCFC’s high defensive line.

• Santiago Rodríguez (NYC): The Argentine playmaker will test Dallas’ midfield shape and backline with his vision and late runs.

• Maarten Paes (DAL): The Dutch goalkeeper has been a steady force between the posts, and his shot-stopping will be vital in a game likely to feature tight margins.

How to Watch and Listen

Fans can stream the match live on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV. Local audio commentary is available through the FC Dallas app, providing in-depth insight and real-time coverage.

As the playoff picture begins to take shape, every match matters. With a packed house expected under the Texas lights, FC Dallas will aim to protect home turf and take a crucial step forward in the Western Conference playoff race.

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Pregame Warmups FC Dallas vs NYC FC