STWF Sports | FRISCO, Texas | Jan. 30, 2026 — FC Dallas put an emphatic exclamation point on its Atlantic Cup campaign Friday, closing preseason play in Portugal with a 3–1 victory over Real Salt Lake at Estádio Municipal de Portimão. The win capped a productive overseas run for Dallas, which returns to the United States carrying momentum, confidence, and clarity as the final phase of preseason approaches.
The unique match format — three 45-minute halves — tested depth, fitness, and tactical flexibility. FC Dallas passed each test. With contributions spread across the lineup and pressure applied late, the Hoops finished their Portugal slate 3–0, scoring 12 goals while conceding just three, a balance that spoke to both attacking sharpness and defensive organization.
Dallas struck early in the second half through its most established finisher. In the 46th minute, Petar Musa opened the scoring with his first goal of 2026, finishing cleanly after a composed buildup orchestrated by Patrickson Delgado. The goal rewarded Dallas’ patient possession and underscored Musa’s ability to convert half-chances — a trait that has become central to the club’s attacking identity.
Real Salt Lake responded with urgency, pressing higher and forcing the tempo as the match wore on. But Dallas remained disciplined, absorbing pressure and waiting for opportunities to strike in transition. That patience paid off late, and it came courtesy of a rookie eager to make his mark.
In the 90th minute, Ricky Louis harassed the RSL backline, forcing a turnover deep in the attacking third. His quick reaction turned disruption into opportunity, slipping a decisive pass to Anderson Julio, who finished calmly to double the advantage. The sequence reflected the hallmarks of Dallas’ preseason approach: aggressive pressing, quick decision-making, and ruthless execution.
Louis wasn’t finished. In the 113th minute, the rookie found himself in the right place at the right time, rising to head home a loose ball off a corner kick for his second goal of the preseason. The finish sealed the result and highlighted Louis’ growing comfort within the system, offering another positive sign as roster competition intensifies.
The victory also reflected Dallas’ depth across the three halves. In the opening segment, Michael Collodi anchored the back line behind a defensive group featuring Herman Johansson, Sebastien Ibeagha, Osaze Urhoghide, and captain Shaq Moore. Midfielders Christian Cappis, Kaick, and Delgado helped control tempo, while Logan Farrington and Julio supported Musa up front.
The second phase brought a fresh look, with Lalas Abubakar organizing the defense, Ramiro wearing the captain’s armband, and young contributors such as Caleb Swann, Nick Simmonds, and Louis stepping into attacking roles. The rotation never disrupted Dallas’ rhythm — a testament to preseason cohesion and clarity of roles.
Beyond the scoreline, the Portugal trip delivered what preseason is meant to provide: tactical clarity, competitive sharpness, and confidence heading into domestic preparations. Three wins, consistent goal production, and a disciplined defensive record have positioned Dallas favorably as the calendar turns toward meaningful tune-ups.
FC Dallas will return to training at Toyota Soccer Center on Feb. 2, shifting focus toward its debut in the inaugural Torneo de Tejas. The next test arrives quickly. Dallas will host Red Bull New York next Saturday, Feb. 7, at Toyota Stadium in a 1 p.m. CT kickoff. The match, exclusive to season ticket members, will mark the club’s first appearance in the new regional competition.
As preseason enters its final stretch, FC Dallas does so with momentum earned overseas. The Atlantic Cup finale offered more than a win — it delivered reassurance that the Hoops’ blend of experience and youth is beginning to click, setting the stage for what lies ahead in 2026.
