FC Dallas faces Houston Dynamo in Texas Derby opener

As the 2025 MLS season kicks off, FC Dallas faces the Houston Dynamo in the Texas Derby, marking the start of new journeys for both teams. FC Dallas, now under the leadership of new coach Eric Quill, has undergone significant changes with 17 new players joining the squad, including 2023 MLS MVP Lucho Acosta, as they aim to establish a competitive presence after trading away key players like Jesús Ferreira and Paul Arriola. Meanwhile, the Houston Dynamo, entering their 20th season, seek to break a recent trend of inconsistency and have bolstered their roster with new signings, including veteran goalkeeper Jimmy Maurer, who previously played for FC Dallas. Both teams are eager to set the tone for the season with a strong performance in this historic rivalry match. The Dynamo finished fifth in the Western Conference last season but were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs, while FC Dallas hopes to improve from their previous year's struggles. The matchup symbolizes not just a contest for points but also a chance for both teams to assert their identities amidst significant roster transformations.