Houston Dynamo FC officially kicks off its 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season this Saturday, February 22, at 8:30 PM ET, against their fiercest rivals, FC Dallas. This highly anticipated matchup at Shell Energy Stadium not only marks the beginning of another thrilling season but also celebrates the Dynamo's 20th anniversary within the league.
The Texas Derby is going to be fierce, showcasing the deep-rooted rivalry between Houston and Dallas. Both teams have been preparing for this showdown, with each squad hoping to start the year on the right foot. Houston enters this season with aspirations of stability and competitive success after finishing fifth in the Western Conference last year, reaching the playoffs but falling short against the Seattle Sounders. Head coach Ben Olsen emphasized the importance of capitalizing on the first game of the season, noting, "The first game of the season always brings a certain level of tension and excitement. The fact it's against our rivals will provide tough testing for the team, but it's one we're looking forward to.”
On the other side of the field, FC Dallas is undergoing major reinvention under the leadership of coach Eric Quill. Having taken charge of the team last November, Quill acknowledges the intensity and excitement surrounding his first game as head coach. He stated, "I don't think the jitters are here yet... Let's kick it off with a bang, man!" This game gives Quill the opportunity to set the tone early on for his project, as Dallas hopes to improve upon last season's disappointing 11th-place finish.
Both clubs recognize the stakes of this opening showdown. The teams will not only compete for three points but also for the coveted El Capitán trophy, emblematic of Texas's soccer prowess and pride. This rivalry game has witnessed FC Dallas's dominance recently, with Dallas retaining El Capitán since 2022. For Houston, this match presents the perfect chance to reclaim not just the trophy but also regional preeminence.
Coming off the offseason, both teams have made significant roster moves. Houston Dynamo's key acquisition, veteran goalkeeper Jimmy Maurer, previously from FC Dallas, aims to bolster the defense. Maurer's experience is expected to contribute significantly, as the Dynamo seeks to avoid defensive pitfalls witnessed last season. The coaching staff believes establishing early momentum is key, especially against their chief rivals.
Dallas, conversely, has experienced tremendous turnover during the offseason, with at least 17 players entering and 15 leaving the club. Players like Jesús Ferreira, Paul Arriola, and Alan Velasco have departed, raising questions about the team’s immediate cohesion and efficacy. To counter this, Dallas has recruited notable talents, including 2023 MLS MVP Lucho Acosta, aiming to forge an aggressive and lively attacking side. Should this revamped unit gel quickly, they could pose trouble for Houston’s backline.
Highlighting individual talents, Dynamo's Nico Lodeiro could also be pivotal after his signing earlier this week. He's known for his experience and playmaking abilities, being just the fifth player with six or more seasons of 10+ assists. For Dallas, Acosta will be key as well; he registered 93 goal contributions across three seasons with FC Cincinnati, outpacing all other players over the same period.
The Texas Derby carries not only the weight of rivalry but also of tradition and community pride. The matchday atmosphere promises electrifying energy, cultivated through decades of fierce competition. Fans attending the game will have the opportunity to participate fully, as Houston Dynamo is running promotions like distributing Dynamo-branded wall flags to those who arrive early. This sense of community enhances the significance of the event.
Fans hoping to catch all the action can do so live on Apple TV+, with the match being part of MLS's broader offerings for the season. Whether you’re rooting for the Dynamo or FC Dallas, the first kick is set to ignite passions and set the tone for the rest of the 2025 season.
This highly anticipated opener is set to make waves as Houston hopes to regain its footing among Texas soccer giants, and Dallas looks to find its rhythm amid sweeping changes. It will be more than just another game; it’s about establishing dominance, community pride, and competing for silverware right from the season's outset.