The Unique Dynamic of Texas Soccer Rivalries in MLS

In the landscape of American soccer, rivalries are not just about the thrill of competition but also about the tangible trophies that symbolize victory over a foe. This distinctive aspect sets American football rivalries apart, adding an extra layer of significance to each encounter. In the state of Texas, this tradition is exemplified by not just one, but two fiercely contested derbies involving three Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs: FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, and the newcomer Austin FC.

The traditional rivalry in Texas is between FC Dallas and Houston Dynamo. FC Dallas, formerly known as the Dallas Burn, holds a significant place in MLS history as one of the ten founding clubs in 1996. Despite this legacy, FC Dallas has yet to secure an MLS Cup, coming closest in 2006 when they lost in the final to the Colorado Rapids. While they clinched the Supporters’ Shield in 2016 for finishing atop the regular season standings, their playoff journey was cut short by the Seattle Sounders. This longstanding quest for MLS glory has fueled their rivalry with Houston Dynamo.

Live football scores – Stay updated now

On the other hand, Houston Dynamo emerged onto the MLS scene in 2006 after relocating from San Jose, California, where they were formerly known as the San Jose Earthquakes. Their inaugural season in Houston culminated in a remarkable achievement as they clinched the MLS Cup in their debut campaign, triumphing over the New England Revolution in a thrilling final decided by a penalty shootout. The following year, they successfully defended their title, further solidifying their status as a formidable force in MLS. This instant success added fuel to the rivalry with FC Dallas, intensifying the competition between the two Texas clubs.

The animosity between FC Dallas and Houston Dynamo led to the establishment of the Texas derby, a fierce rivalry steeped in tradition and passion. Drawing inspiration from other football rivalries in the United States, the Texas derby introduced the concept of competing for a physical trophy to determine the season’s victor. However, unlike traditional trophies or shields, the prize at stake is a replica of a historic war cannon known as “El Capitan.”

Live football scores delivered to you.

El Capitan serves as a tangible symbol of supremacy in the Texas derby, embodying the pride and honor of the victorious club. The derby unfolds over a series of matches, with the team accumulating the most points throughout the season laying claim to the coveted cannon. In the event of a tie, the fate of El Capitan is determined by various factors, including subsequent matches in the playoffs, domestic cup competitions, or the CONCACAF Champions League.

Despite FC Dallas historically dominating the Texas derby with ten victories out of eighteen seasons, the arrival of Austin FC introduced a new dimension to the rivalry. As the newest addition to the Texas soccer landscape, Austin FC injected fresh energy into the competition, prompting the creation of another trophy: the Copa Tejas, or the Texas Cup.

The Copa Tejas was conceived in 2019 at the initiative of San Antonio FC fans who sought to replicate the intense atmosphere of derby matches. With the introduction of Austin FC into MLS, the Copa Tejas expanded to encompass multiple levels of competition, including a separate cup for MLS teams and another for participants in the USL Championship.

The top five clubs in Texas—FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, Austin FC, San Antonio FC, and El Paso Locomotive—vie for supremacy in their respective leagues, showcasing the depth of soccer talent in the Lone Star State. The Copa Tejas standings are determined by a mini-table of matches, with each victory contributing to a club’s quest for glory.

Thus far in the season, Austin FC has made a strong statement in the Copa Tejas, securing victories against both FC Dallas and Houston Dynamo. Their triumphs have propelled them to the top of the standings, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the competition.

As the MLS Texas derby between FC Dallas and Houston Dynamo approaches, the stakes are higher than ever. The clash between these perennial rivals promises to ignite passions and rivalries, underscoring the rich tradition of soccer in Texas. With El Capitan and the Copa Tejas up for grabs, the battle for supremacy in Texas is set to captivate fans and define the landscape of MLS soccer in the Lone Star State.