Columbus Crew SC is continuing its three-game home stand by hosting FC Dallas on Saturday at MAPFRE Stadium for a 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff.
Here are some storylines to keep an eye on:
Howdy
This will be the 46th regular-season meeting against FC Dallas and the only match of the season. The cross-conference foes met once last season at Toyota Stadium on April 2. The Black & Gold took the early lead thanks to a ninth minute goal by Midfielder Justin Meram assisted by Federico Higuain. However, Tesho Akindele evened things out for Dallas in 77th minute, resulting in a 1-1 draw.
Lone Star
Maximiliano Urruti has been the standout star for FC Dallas with 12 goals so far this season. The 26-year-old Argentine forward has been known to out-smart the opposing defense. One of his more memorable goals was his game-winner on July 8, 2016, against San Jose in the 51st minute, when he sent the ball to the back of the net with a bicycle kick.
Mess With Texas
The once-feared FC Dallas has hit a rough patch having gone winless in their last five matches. They have also conceded their last seven road matches in league action going 1-4-2. The Black & Gold, on the other hand, have won five of their last six regular-season home games, with the last three wins coming consecutively. Thanks to a sturdy defense, they have also kept five clean sheets in their last 11 matches at MAPFRE Stadium.
The Black & Gold will remain home to host Sporting Kansas City on Sunday, September 10 at 1 p.m. ET in Columbus after some much needed rest.