Sporting Kansas City Hosts FC Dallas in Crucial MLS Matchup

KANSAS CITY, Missouri — Sporting Kansas City will host FC Dallas on Saturday night in a critical MLS matchup. Both teams are currently struggling, sitting in 11th and 12th places in the Western Conference, respectively. The game is set to kick off at 7:20 p.m. CT at Children's Mercy Park.

Sporting Kansas City, under interim coach Kerry Zavagnin, started the month of May strong but has since faltered, earning only six points from their last six matches. Their last outing resulted in a disappointing 3-1 loss to LAFC, where they led until conceding just before halftime.

Despite their recent struggles, Sporting KC boasts a four-game unbeaten streak prior to the LAFC defeat and has earned eight points from seven home games this season. Zavagnin is optimistic about turning the tide, as star striker Dejan Joveljic has been scoring consistently.

FC Dallas, on the other hand, has failed to win any of their last six matches across all competitions. Their last MLS victory was on April 27, when they edged Inter Miami 4-3. Coach Eric Quill acknowledged the need for his team to improve, especially with their away record being one of the best in the Western Conference, despite recent setbacks.

Dallas will have to make at least one substitution due to red card suspensions, impacting their defensive lineup. However, the return of vital players from injury could boost their chances.

Sporting Kansas might welcome back Jake Davis to the midfield, reinforcing their lineup as they aim to secure a much-needed win. Predictions suggest a close match, with a draw likely, but statistics indicate Kansas City has a 57.55% chance of winning, with a probable scoreline of 2-1.

The teams last met on March 29, with FC Dallas triumphing 2-1, making this matchup even more crucial as both sides eye points for playoff contention.