FRISCO, Texas - Head coach Luchi Gonzalez makes two changes as FC Dallas takes on Sporting KC tonight, July 31 at 7:30PM at Children's Mercy Park. Here's the lineup notes, pres. by UnitedHealthcare.
Cerrillo
Midfielder Edwin Cerrillo earns his fourth start of the season, replacing Andrés Ricaurte who is suspended for this match after picking up his fifth yellow card of the campaign last time out. Cerrillo will play in a double pivot in front of the backline alongside Facundo Quignon. Still, the 20-year-old Homegrown will be given more license to get forward than his midfield partner, and will be expected to join the high press when Dallas is without the ball.
Ema Twumasi
The versatile Ema Twumasi makes his sixth appearance and second start of the year tonight. In his previous start, the Ghanaian played in the midfield three but will line up at right back for this one in place of the injured Justin Che. Twumasi isn't the most vertical fullback but he's strong on the ball and smart in possession so he'll be an asset when FCD looks to play out of the back.
The GOAT Returns
The center back duo of Matt Hedges makes his first return to the matchday squad after missing the last few weeks with an injury. Hedges hasn't featured since May 23 while dealing with a hip issue and his return is a huge boost for FC Dallas who have been light at the back without him and José MartÃnez. While he's available on the bench, don't expect Hedges to feature unless FCD is trying to close out a win late in the game.
Full Lineup:
Starting XI (4-2-3-1): Jimmy Maurer; Bressan, Nkosi Tafari; Ryan Hollingshead, Ema Twumasi, Edwin Cerrillo, Facundo Quignon, Paxton Pomykal, Szabolcs Schön, Jesús Ferreira; Ricardo Pepi
Substitutes:
Phelipe, Johnny Nelson, Brandon Servania, Matt Hedges, Eddie Munjoma, Kalil ElMedkhar, Franco Jara, Jáder Obrian, Freddy Vargas
