HOUSTON — In an exciting season opener for both teams, FC Dallas triumphed over the Houston Dynamo with a narrow 2-1 victory on Saturday night.

Petar Musa played a pivotal role, contributing both a goal and an assist, while Anderson Julio also found the back of the net to secure the win for Dallas. Julio, who joined the team from Real Salt Lake in December, made his mark in the 76th minute by executing a deft chip shot from the edge of the penalty area into an empty net, putting his team ahead for the remainder of the match. The goal followed a critical play in which Musa dispossessed Houston’s Jack McGlynn and delivered a long, calculated pass to Julio. He outpaced the Dynamo defenders and evaded goalkeeper Andrew Tarbell, who had ventured far outside his box, before calmly finishing the play with a decisive shot as the defense mounted its challenge.

The match began with Houston taking an early lead when Amine Bassi scored in the 18th minute with a well-placed header from close range. The play unfolded as Griffin Dorsey, positioned near the right sideline, initiated the attack with a pass to Sebastian Kowalczyk. Kowalczyk then delivered a precise one-touch return to Dorsey, who crossed the ball into the box. Ezequiel Ponce contributed with a gentle header that set up Bassi, who found the net with authority.

Dallas equalized in the 55th minute when Musa seized on a defensive miscue from Ethan Bartlow. Musa took a single touch before sending a side-footed shot past Tarbell and into the net, leveling the score at 1-1.

Despite Dallas’ victory, Houston controlled 57% of possession and generated more scoring opportunities, outshooting their opponents 11-8. One of Houston’s near-misses came in the 73rd minute when Jack McGlynn struck the goalpost with a well-aimed effort from outside the penalty area.

The match showcased moments of brilliance from both sides, setting an exciting tone for the season ahead.