FC Dallas has a new hero and his debut was nothing short of legendary | OneFootball

The 2025 MLS season is underway, giving us early peeks at a season of surprises. FC Dallas's latest addition, Anderson Julio, wasted no time making an impact. In his debut, he was the game-changer in a stunning comeback against Houston Dynamo. With a winner in the 76th minute, the Ecuadorian forward sealed the Texas Derby victory and etched his name in club history.

This win was not another mark on the board, it was one. FC Dallas may have gained a key piece for the year. For a team which craves consistency and stability, Julio's debut means a great deal more than three points.

Instant impact

It does not very frequently occur that a new individual enters and is able to win the game straight away. That is precisely what Anderson Julio did. In the course of a lightning fast counterattack, he kept his composure, seized the opportunity, and passed the ball into an open net to secure Dallas' comeback against Houston Dynamo.

"I am excited for the fans of FC Dallas tonight. They came out and got to witness a great season opener," said head coach Eric Quill, who also earned his coaching debut with the team.

Quill went on to praise the team's mentality and resolve, pointing out how they were able to come back from being down early and stay focused until the end.

"Coming down 1-0 and coming back the way we did speaks volumes about what these guys have been putting in over the last few weeks. Our mindset is changing to where we believe we can play with anyone. We're here to win, and we're not going to give up."

Julio's initial goal earned the "Game Day Energy Moment," sponsored by MLS partner Celsius.

First victory in Houston since 2016

The win at Houston was bigger than a boost to morale, it ended a nine-year drought. FC Dallas hadn't won at BBVA Stadium since 2016. Starting the season by ending that drought sends a strong message about what's on the horizon.

Quill ensured to highlight how much of a morale booster this road win was: "I'm excited for these guys. We won just one road game last season, and to be able to come here in Week 1, in a derby, and collect a point in a tough spot like this is fantastic for the club. That's what I'm most satisfied with."

This performance could quite possibly be the launching pad for a new identity if FC Dallas is serious about building one in MLS.

FC Dallas and the pursuit of MLS relevance

MLS is becoming increasingly competitive year after year, and for clubs such as FC Dallas, who aim to climb the ranks, it's all about starting strong. The club needs consistency and match-winners, and Anderson Julio might just be that man.

FC Dallas isn't thought to be a title favorite, but wins like these build the kind of team personality and make one believe another approach is underway.

Next step: Continuing to create this winning ethos, something Eric Quill has been stressing right on through preseason.

The challenge against Colorado Rapids

After the Texas Derby victory, Dallas's next encounter is with Colorado Rapids. The team heads to Dick's Sporting Goods Park looking for a second straight road victory, no simple feat.

The Rapids have been a tough team to beat at home, and this match will be a significant test for FC Dallas. If they can keep their momentum going and get another away win, it'll be a positive indication that this season might turn out a lot better than anyone could have imagined.