After a gripping penalty shootout, FC Dallas has advanced to the Conference Semis. Dallas withstood a bevy of close calls in the second half, but eventually Jorge Villafana gave Portland the lead in the 82nd minute. Dallas’ lifeline came just over ten minutes later when Ricardo Pepi sprung on a through ball from Matt Hedges. He unceremoniously split the disorganized Portland defense, driving straight to Steve Clark. His first attempt found the post and returned to him for an easy conversion of the biggest goal of his career so far.
Dallas looked more menacing in extra time than they did in the opening ninety, bolstered by Michael Barrios, Pepi, and Ema Twumasi’s fresh legs.