For the second straight year, FC Dallas returns from Seattle behind in the Western Conference Semifinal and needing a big result in front of their home fans at Toyota Stadium.
After Sunday night's disappointing 3-0 loss to the Sounders, here are the scenarios that Dallas needs to reach the Conference Final round:
To Take Series Outright
Trailing 3-0 at the mid-point of the series, Dallas will need a win by four or more goals to take the series outright in regulation. Regardless of how many times Seattle scores, a four-goal lead at the end of Leg Two minutes would see FCD take control of the aggregate score, overcoming a three-goal deficit after Leg One.
To Level Series, Force Extra Time
If Dallas were to replicate last year's home PK heroics over Seattle, they would need to replicate the Sounders' 3-0 win exactly. A 3-0 win at home would put the aggregate score at 3-3 and with neither team having scored on the road (the first tie-breaker), 30 minutes of extra time and, if needed, PKs would follow. FCD cannot allow a goal in this scenario because Seattle would take the lead in the road goals tie-breaker.
Any Other Result
If Dallas wins by less than three goals (or four if allowing Seattle a goal), the Sounders would advance. A draw or a win from the visitors would see them advance as well.
