A schedule change means FC Dallas has a difficult week, traveling to face the Chicago Fire on Thursday, then turning around to meet the Houston Dynamo at home Sunday.
While FCD coach Oscar Pareja is expected to rest some regular starters ahead of Sunday's nationally televised rivalry clash, midfielder Kellyn Acosta said Thursday's game will still have enormous significance as it also has a rivalry trophy on the line.
"Thursday is a game that's almost a must-win game, like a final, we look at that we need to get back on track," Acosta said. "Sunday at home we're playing a rivalry game against Houston, so that's going to be very important.