NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
Prediction 
Odds 
Last Recap 
Game Picks 
Top Handicapper 
Before U.S. Open Cup semis, Austin FC turn focus to rival Dallas
Austin FC (11-9-8, 41 points) have a big U.S. Open Cup semifinal against Minnesota on Wednesday, but first, they head north up I-35 for a Copa Tejas clash with rival FC Dallas.
The Sharpest Picks in the Game
First month, just $9
Austin sits sixth in the Western Conference and is pushing to lock down playoff positioning, while Dallas remains on the outside looking in — four points shy of the ninth-place wild card spot.
The Verde come in off a 2-1 road win at Sporting KC, thanks to Owen Wolff (goal + assist) and CJ Fodrey (first MLS goal). Dallas, meanwhile, survived a wild match in St. Louis, earning a 1-1 draw despite going down to 10 men in the 16th minute and allowing 41 shots. Backup keeper Jacob Jackson stole the show with 12 saves, tying a club record.
Track MLS betting action live 👉 Check today’s soccer previews
Austin FC Can Win If…
- Owen Wolff drives the attack. The 19-year-old has a team-high 12 goal contributions and continues to be Austin’s playmaker.
- They capitalize on Dallas’ shorthanded GK situation. With starter Michael Collodi suspended (red card), backup Jacob Jackson will start again — and he won’t likely repeat a 12-save performance.
- They avoid distraction from the U.S. Open Cup. Austin can’t afford to look ahead with playoff points at stake.
CJ Fodrey’s late winner vs. SKC was a breakthrough, and another impact moment from him could give Austin the edge.
FC Dallas Can Win If…
- They feed off last week’s grit. Despite being down a man, Dallas fought for a huge point vs. St. Louis. That mentality will be needed again.
- Jackson holds up in goal. The backup keeper was heroic in his last start, and another strong outing will be crucial.
- They create for Jesús Ferreira. The star forward has been quiet lately — Dallas needs him to snap the slump and punish Austin’s defense.
Coach Eric Quill summed it up:
“We’re becoming a team that works hard for each other … The chemistry is off the charts and they all want to be in the playoffs.”
Key MLS Betting Trends
| Category | Austin FC | FC Dallas |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 11-9-8 (6th West) | 7-11-10 (12th West) |
| Current Form | Won 2 straight, points in 4 of 5 | 1-1-3 in last 5 |
| Last Meeting | 1-1 draw (Aug. 16) | 1-1 draw (Aug. 16) |
| Key Player | Owen Wolff (12 goal contributions) | Jesús Ferreira (team-leading scorer) |
The Leans
Main Pick: Austin FC ML (+140)
Projected Score: Austin 2, Dallas 1
- Moneyline Angle: Austin has more firepower and motivation, while Dallas has major questions in goal.
- Total Goals Angle: Over 2.5 (-110) — both defenses have looked vulnerable, and rivalry matches tend to get open.
Best Bet Box
Best Bet: Austin FC ML (+140)
Confidence: ★★★★☆
Will Austin stay locked in before their Cup semifinal? 👉 Get today’s sharp MLS picks here
