FC Dallas and Austin FC added another tense chapter to the Copa Tejas rivalry last night, battling to a hard‑fought 0–0 draw at Toyota Stadium a result that ultimately crowned FC Dallas as Copa Tejas champions for the third time in club history. The Texas rivalry has always carried extra weight, but this edition felt particularly charged, with both sides fighting for silverware and bragging rights in a derby defined by intensity, physical play, and narrow margins.
Despite the scoreline, the match delivered plenty of storylines. FC Dallas controlled the better attacking moments throughout the night, generating multiple quality chances and finishing with a stronger expected‑goals total than Austin FC. Goalkeeper Daniel was a standout performer, earning his first shutout of the season with several key saves including a diving stop early in the second half that kept Dallas level. On the other end, Austin’s Brad Stuver matched him save for save, denying Dallas twice in stoppage time and frustrating the home crowd during what felt like inevitable scoring opportunities.
The match also featured its share of memorable moments, including a brief delay in the 76th minute when a rabbit quickly nicknamed “Tex Hopper” sprinted across the pitch, drawing laughs from players and fans before being safely escorted off. But once play resumed, the tone returned to the familiar grind of a Texas derby: tight midfield battles, disciplined defending, and flashes of attacking creativity from both sides.
While FC Dallas couldn’t find the finishing touch, the draw was enough to secure the Copa Tejas thanks to their season series advantage over Austin FC. The club remains undefeated at home against Austin in MLS play, extending a remarkable 6‑0‑2 record in Frisco. The night also marked the continuation of Dallas’ sellout streak, with over 10,900 fans packing Toyota Stadium to witness the rivalry clash.
In the end, the performance reflected both the grit and frustration that often define derby matches. Head coach Eric Quill praised his team’s defensive organization but lamented the missed chances, calling the result “bittersweet” a trophy secured, but three points left on the table. Still, lifting Copa Tejas adds another proud moment to the club’s history, and Dallas now shifts focus back to league play as they prepare to host LAFC next weekend.
Check out the photos by the author below.
